Selective Metallization of Block Copolymers Using Supercritical Carbon Dioxide

In this research phase-separated structures of styrene-vinylpyridine block copolymers are used as templates for macromolecule-metal nanocomposites. Under optimal conditions, templates are prepared as thin films or in bulk and metallized without disturbing the ordered structure. We have developed a procedure that deposits metal within the polymer using supercritical carbon dioxide-soluble metal precursors. The use of supercritical carbon dioxide allows for selective metallization of the polymer at or below the glass transition, without disrupting the morphology. In addition, similar procedures have been investigated using metal salts and acids. Using these techniques, metals and metal-sulfides including silver, gold, platinum and zinc sulfide have been deposited.