Polyacrylate-core/TiO2-shell nanocomposite particles prepared by in situ emulsion polymerization

Abstract

We report the preparation of polyacrylate-core/TiO2-shell nanocomposite particles through in situ emulsion polymerization in the presence of nano-TiO2 colloid obtained by the hydrolysis of titanium tetrachloride. The resultant colloidal system can be stable for months without any precipitation. In a typical sample, the diameter of nanocomposite particles was about 150 nm, and the thickness of TiO2-shell was 4-10 nm. Only cetyltrimethylammonium bromide was employed to provide the latex particles with positive charge, which was enough for the formation of fine TiO2 coatings. Three initiators were tested. Ammonia persulfate was the most suitable one, because the cooperative effect was formed by the negatively charged TiO2 particles and the terminal anionic group (SO42-, the fraction of Ammonia persulfate) of the polymer chain on the surface of latex particles to maintain the stability of nanocomposite system. The pH value played a vital role in obtaining a tight TiO2 coating. Transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and Atomic force microscopy were used to characterize this nanocomposite material. It was found that rutile and anatase coexisted in the nanocomposite film. This may suggest a potential application in the field of photocatalytic coating. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.