Formation of Polymers on Nanostructures Under X-ray Irradiation

Abstract

First time demonstration of enhanced formation of polymers on nanostructures under X-ray irradiation.

Full Description

Researchers at UC Davis have developed methods of formation of a polymer from a monomer on a metal-based nanoparticle under X-ray irradiation or the dissolution of metal ions from this nanoparticle under X-ray irradiation, and more specifically methods of enhancing formation of a polyanilne polymer from an aniline monomer on a silver core - gold shell nanoparticle under X-ray irradiation and release of Ag ions from this core-shell nanoparticle. X-rays are highly penetrating, and nanomaterials can pinpoint the growth of polymers down to nanometer scale. Therefore it is possible to use short wavelength X-rays and nanomaterials to create high precision polymer structures of nanometer resolution.

Applications

• Use of short wavelength X-rays and nanomaterials to create high precision polymer structures of nanometer resolution can potentially be used by drug, semiconductor and sensor industry
• X-ray triggered release of Ag ions can function as targeted antimicrobial release

Features/Benefits

• Uses nanostructures and wide beam X-rays to make nanostructures of polymers
• Alternative method of making photomasks

Patent Status