From monomeric nanofibers to PbS nanoparticles/polymer composite nanofibers through the combined use of γ-irradiation and gas/solid reaction

Organic metal-salt (lead dimethacrylate (Pb(MA)2)) nanofibers are prepared, and these Pb(MA)2 monomeric nanofibers are successfully converted into PbS nanoparticles/polymer composite nanofibers through the combined use of γ-irradiated polymerization and gas/solid reaction. The resulting composite nanofibers have excellent thermal and chemical stability, and the PbS nanoparticles (with diameters of about 4 nm) are well dispersed in the polymer-fiber matrices. This approach could also be extended to methacrylates containing other metal ions. We anticipate that this method would provide a platform for the fabrication of diverse and multifunctional polymer nanocomposite fibers, which would have potential applications in fabricating devices with optical, electric, and magnetic properties. Copyright © 2006 American Chemical Society.