In Situ Synthesis of CdS Quantum Dot–Partially Sulfonated Polystyrene Composite: Characterization and Optical Properties

Abstract

A simple, direct method for generating a nanohybrid of CdS quantum dots (QDs) in functionalized waste polymer shows good optical properties combined with photocatalytic activities. Homogeneous sulfonation of expanded polystyrene waste (EPS) forms partially sulfonated polystyrene (PSS). Hydrogelation of the PSS facilitates the attachment of CdS QDs through sulfonic acid groups by ion-exchange mechanism, followed by trapping within the polymer network, ultimately generating an organic/inoganic nanohybrid. X-ray diffraction verifies the existence of the CdS nanocrystals and defines their cubic crystalline structure and crystallite size. High resolution transmission electron microscopy shows the formation of QDs in the nanohybrid. A blue shift in ultraviolet−visible absorption and photoluminescence confirm the QDs formation. The polymer chains effectively passivate the surface of CdS nanocrystals that exhibit exciton emission (455−471 nm) with less surface defect state emission (540 nm). In addition, the photocatalytic activity of the composite in degrading an organic dye is demonstrated.

A sensitive electrochemiluminescence cytosensor for quantitative evaluation of epidermal growth factor receptor expressed on cell surfaces

“…As seen in Fig. S1 (Supplementary information), CdSQDs showed a yellow-green fluorescence in dark-field illumination with blue excitation [24,25]. Compared with MB and CdSQDs, CdSQDs@MB presented an enhancing yellow-green fluorescence, attributing to the aggregation of CdSQDs.…”

Conjugated Polymer/Nanocrystal Nanocomposites for Renewable Energy Applications in Photovoltaics and Photocatalysis

“…The ideal polymeric support should satisfy several features: good adhesion with the photocatalyst; a large specific surface area; high adsorption capability toward the reaction species; high chemical inertness; and good mechanical stability. Several methods have been developed to immobilize photocatalysts on polymeric supports, including electrospinning, sol–gel methods, atomic layer deposition, solvent‐casting process, hydrothermal methods, solvothermal methods, solution polymerization, ion exchange, and impregnation . Most of these methods can be performed at relatively low temperature to avoid damage to the polymeric supports.…”

Ultrafast Nanocrystals Decorated Micromotors for On-Site Dynamic Chemical Processes

“…In connection with their narrow bandwidth, NCs have emerged as novel candidates for a wide range of applications, including solar cells, bioimaging, , multiplexed chemical analyses, photocatalyst, etc. For example, CdS NCs can act as visible light catalyst to degrade hazardous compounds or to produce hydrogen. , Of particular interest, CdS, ZnS, or PbS calchogenides can undergo cationic exchange transformation with several species such as Ag, Pb, or Hg. − Scientists take further advantage of such features by using NCs for novel synthesis processes. ,, Recent trends in material synthesis are directed to integrate nanoparticles (such as NCs) into host structures, leading to multifunctional entities with new collective properties that are different from those displayed by individual nanoparticles and bulk samples. − Controlled “in situ” synthesis of NCs on the surface of different templates is a very advantage route to avoid the inherent NCs aggregation in aqueous solutions toward homogeneous coating while avoiding its corrosion in oxygen-containing rich media. , Herein, we will show a new synthetic route for the “in situ” growth of CdS and ZnS NCs on the surface of tubular micromotors via template-assisted electrochemical deposition, leading to new multifunctional structures with unpreceded capabilities.…”