Ag–In–Zn–S alloyed nanocrystals as photocatalysts of controlled light-mediated radical polymerization

Abstract

We report on the first case of the use of nonstoichiometric ternary (Ag–In–Zn–S) semiconductor nanocrystals as photoinitiators and photocatalysts of methyl methacrylate (MMA) polymerization. Two types of nanocrystals were tested, differing in their composition and characterized by red (λ_max = 731 nm) and green (λ_max = 528 nm) photoluminescence, respectively. Exploiting their reducing properties and capability of free radical generation we demonstrate that under ultraviolet (UV) radiation they effectively photoinitiate radical polymerization of MMA whereas under visible light (blue or green) they act as photocatalysts of living radical polymerization.