Stable polymeric materials with embedded
nano-objects, retaining
their specific properties, are indispensable for the development of
nanotechnology. Here, a method to obtain Pt, Pd, Au, and Ag nanoparticles
(ca. 10 nm, independent of the metal) by the reduction of their ions
in pectin, in the absence of additional reducing agents, is described.
Specific interactions between the pectin functional groups and nanoparticles
were detected, and they depend on the metal. Bundles and protruding
nanoparticles are present on the surface of nanoparticles/pectin films.
These films, deposited on the electrode surface, exhibit electrochemical
response, characteristic for a given metal. Their electrocatalytic
activity toward the oxidation of a few exemplary organic molecules
was demonstrated. In particular, a synergetic effect of simultaneously
prepared Au and Pt nanoparticles in pectin films on glucose electro-oxidation
was found.