Dynamic templating role of polynaphtalene sulphonate in the formation of silver nanocrystals in aqueous solution

We have used time resolved small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) for investigating the early stages of the formation of crystalline colloidal Ag particles by AgNO3 reduction with ascorbic acid in an aqueous acidic solution of a polynaphthalene sulphonate polymer (Daxad). In order to exploit the polymer role in silver crystallization, the measurements have been performed at different polymer concentrations. Data analysis suggests that the nucleation and growth of primary particles of about 20 nm in diameter, occurring in a surface-fractal arrangement of the dynamic polymeric template, is assisted by the development of long range spatial correlations. These correlations could be a sign of polymer-induced liquid fluctuations as intermediate precursors of Ag crystallization.