Synthesis, structure and photocatalytic properties of organic-inorganic nanocomposites containing poly(titanium oxide) and silver nanoparticles

The comprehensive investigation of polycondensation and polymerization syntheses of organic-inorganic copolymers based on Ti(OPri)4 and hydroxyethylmethacrylate in the presence of AgNO3 has been carried out by dielectric spectroscopy and calorimetry. The rates of the processes depend on the composition. The higher content of hydroxyethyl methacrylate leads to the slower polycondensation of titanium alkoxide and faster polymerization. Introduction of AgNO3 into the reaction system leads to the polycondensation acceleration, as well as the inhibition of organic monomer polymerization. After UV-irradiation of samples the polymer nanocomposites containing Ag nanoparticles with size 4-12 nm have been obtained. The synthesis conditions have a significant impact on the structure of inorganic polymer chains in the organic matrix. The nanocomposites exhibit photocatalytic activity in the decomposition of methylene orange under UV irradiation.