Synthesis of hybrid nanostructures composed of copper ions and poly(p-phenylenediamine) in aqueous solutions

A new kind of hybrid nanoparticles composed of copper ions and poly(p-phenylenediamine) has been synthesized in aqueous solution at room temperature. The nanoparticles have been characterized and studied by TEM, AFM, XPS, and UV spectroscopy. The synthesized nanoparticles are prone to connect with each other and form large nanoclusters. The diameters of the nanoparticles are 46 +/- 26 nm. It is believed that a porous network structure exists inside the nanoparticles. The UV absorption spectra of the nanoparticles are sensed with pH and can be reversibly changed according to the pH level. This phenomenon of the nanoparticles has some potential applications. Nanosheets and branched rods composed of copper ions and poly(p-phenylenediamine) have also been obtained by using different ratios of copper ions and p-phenylenediamine as the initial reactant.