Fabrication of a novel type of metallized colloids and hollow capsules

A novel type of micrometer-sized entity containing silver was introduced. Three different approaches were employed to modify the colloidal particles with silver. According to the first technique, the particles were first coated with layers of poly(styrenesulfonate) and silver ions followed by the reduction of silver by photoirradiation. The second technique involved coating the colloidal particles with a shell capable of reduction, and sequential addition of silver salt resulted in the reduction of metal in the shell matrix. The last approach utilizied the reaction of a silver mirror to silver particles. Varying the sequence of polyelectrolyte layers and silver cover resulted in different morphology, stability, and properties of the structures. The core could be removed subsequently, giving rise to hollow silver-containing capsules. The obtained shells and capsules were characterized by TEM, AFM, and confocal laser scanning microscopy. These metallized structures have a potential to serve as superior catalysts with tailored qualities and capabilities.