The pH-controlled synthesis of a gold nanoparticle/polymer matrix via electrodeposition at a liquid-liquid interface

A controlled synthesis of metal nanoparticles co-deposited in a polymer matrix at various pH conditions has been investigated at the interface between two immiscible phases. The pH value of the aqueous phase is modified, resulting in various types of reaction between the gold compound and the monomer. The types of electrochemical processes and their kinetic parameters are determined using both the method of Nicholson and a method based on the Butler-Volmer equation. Cyclic voltammetry is the experimental method used. A material analysis via transmission electron microscopy and particle size distribution calculations confirm that nanoparticles of different sizes can be synthesized by modification of the system pH. The stability of the generated nanocomposite is also discussed.