Synthesis and characterization of silver nanoparticles and titanium oxide nanofibers : toward multifibrous nanocomposites

A new method was investigated to produce new multiscale fibrous nanocomposites comprised of titanium oxide (TiO₂) nanofibers and silver (Ag) nanoparticles (NPs). The process involved electrospinning TiO₂ precursor solution containing colloidal solution of Ag NPs, and organic solvent (dimethyl-<i>n′n</i>-formamide) to fabricate a porous, nonwoven, free-standing nanofiber mesh. Postprocess heating of the electrospun nanofibers entailed calcination in air environment at 500°C for 3 h. Microemulsion processing was used to generate NPs of Ag in a monodispersed distribution throughout the colloidal solution. X-ray diffraction data were consistent with the anatase phase of TiO2, while transmission electron microscopy and hydrogen desorption measurements revealed a very porous microstructure. It was demonstrated that NP colloidal stability is solvent dependent. It is anticipated that incorporation of metal particles in nanofibers will lead to enhanced photocurrent generation, when used in functional devices.