In-Situ Synthesis of Metal Oxide Nanoparticle Nafion Composites

Nafion is a semi-permeable membrane that can be used to inhibit the passage of chemical warfare agents (CWA), while allowing for the active diffusion of water. The latter is critical in the removal of perspiration in the field of protective garments. Nevertheless a membrane that is also capable of detoxifying the CWA would be advantageous. Herein an approach is described to grow metal oxide nanoparticles in situ at the ion exchange sites within a Nafion membrane. Membranes are first impregnated with a metal nitrate solution, and through a hydrolysis route, converted to a metal oxide nanoparticle. By varying the different synthesis conditions, i.e. the solvent composition, it is possible to yield different crystallographic planes in different proportions. Finally x-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy are utilized to confirm and analyze the presence of the zinc oxide nanoparticles.