Hybrid Organic-Inorganic Core-Shell Nano-Particles
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for an improved method to control the size and structure of hybrid organic-inorganic core-shell nano-particles, particularly for applications in anti-reflective coatings, where precise control over particle size and stability is crucial for optimizing performance.
Innovation Solution
The method involves using synthetic polyampholytes as templates to create colloidal organic particles, which are then coated with an inorganic shell layer, allowing for controlled particle size and stability through variations in comonomer composition, pH, temperature, and solvent conditions, resulting in core-shell nano-particles with sizes ranging from 10 to 300 nm.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional templates are used to form core-shell nanoparticles, then particle formation is achieved, but precise control over particle size and structure is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by systematically varying the comonomer composition (ratios of hydrophobic, hydrophilic, and charged monomers), pH conditions, temperature, and solvent composition to precisely control the particle size and structure of core-shell nanoparticles. This allows tuning of particle dimensions and shell thickness without requiring complex template structures.
2Manufacturing precision
If polyampholyte templates with multiple monomers are used, then particle size and structure control is improved, but synthesis complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by incorporating different types of monomer units (hydrophobic, hydrophilic, charged) at specific positions within the polyampholyte chain to create localized functional regions. This allows precise control of particle properties through targeted monomer placement rather than requiring complex overall polymer structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite materials by combining multiple monomer types (acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, vinyl acetate, ethyl methacrylate, dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate) within a single polyampholyte template. This composite approach enables simultaneous control of particle size, stability, and shell formation properties through the synergistic effects of different monomer units.
3Reliability
If core-shell nanoparticles are produced for anti-reflective coatings, then coating performance is enhanced, but particle stability and shelf life require improvement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by using the charged groups in the polyampholyte template to control particle stability through electrostatic interactions. The ionizable groups respond to pH changes and ionic strength variations, providing self-regulation of particle dispersion and stability in the coating formulation, which extends shelf life while maintaining coating performance.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables the production of stable core-shell nano-particles suitable for various applications, including anti-reflective coatings, by ensuring consistent particle size and stability, enhancing their performance and shelf life.
Implementation Method 1
a sol-gel process based on the so-called Stöber method, wherein a tetra-alkoxy silane is hydrolysed and condensed in water/alcohol mixtures containing ammonia
Implementation Method 2
a sol-gel process based on the so-called Stöber method, wherein a tetra-alkoxy silane is hydrolysed and condensed in water/alcohol mixtures containing ammonia
Implementation Method 3
Shell layers comprising silica are generally made with a sol-gel process based on the so-called Stöber method
Implementation Method 4
the organic core comprises solvated synthetic polyampholyte aggregates comprising organic polymer and solvent including water and organic solvent
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method of making hybrid organic-inorganic core-shell nano-particles, comprising the steps of a) providing colloidal organic particles comprising a synthetic polyampholyte as a template; b) adding at least one inorganic oxide precursor; and c) forming a shell layer from the precursor on the template to result in core-shell nano-particles. With this method it is possible to make colloidal organic template particles having an average particle size in the range of 10 to 300 nm; which size can be controlled by the comonomer composition of the polyampholyte, and/or by selecting dispersion conditions. The invention also relates to organic-inorganic or hollow-inorganic core-shell nano-particles obtained with this method, to compositions comprising such nano-particles, to different uses of said nano-particles and compositions, and to products comprising or made from said nano-particles and compositions, including anti-reflective coatings and composite materials.