Structure and morphology of polystyrene - QDs composites in sols and solid films

Abstract Polystyrene (PS) containing a terminal thiol group has been synthesized to create composites with CdSe and CdSe/ZnS quantum dots (QDs). Reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization carried out using asymmetric agent enables a facile synthesis of monochelic macromolecules with functional terminal groups. Modification of the terminal groups does not practically change the polymer molecular weight and the narrow molecular weight distribution. The interaction of the thiol group with the QD surface results in the partial substitution of low molecular weight ligands by macromolecules. The process of the formation of polymer – QD complex in the sol was studied by means of static and dynamic light scattering. The size and morphology of polymer – QD complex in the sol is compared with those in the solid films. Several possible models of the packing of polymer – QD complex are discussed.