Fluorescence microscopy and photodielectric characterization studies of the composite films of polyvinyl alcohol and tryptophan functionalized silver nanoparticles

Fluorescent nanocomposite films were prepared by solution mixing of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and tryptophan functionalized silver (AgTrp) nanoparticles. Synchrotron excitation deep-ultraviolet (DUV) fluorescence imaging was used to follow the distribution of AgTrp nanoparticles within the polymer matrix. Pronounced growth of dendrite-like structures in the presence of AgTrp nanoparticles was confirmed by bright field and fluorescence imaging as well as with atomic force microscopies. Both tryptophan and AgTrp nanoparticles influence thermal properties of the matrix. Differential scanning calorimetry measurements showed that they reduce crystallinity and significantly increase the glass transition temperature of PVA (in the case of PVA-AgTrp film the Tg increases by ~20 °C). Dielectric properties of the films were studied under two different conditions (dark and illumination). The illumination with 250 nm light induces a significant increase in conductance of the PVA-AgTrp nanocomposite. The relative changes, with respect to the conductance measured in the dark, were almost ~200%. [Display omitted] •Fluorescent Ag-tryptophan (AgTrp) nanoparticles were integrated into PVA films.•The distribution of AgTrp in the PVA matrix was studied by fluorescence imaging.•AgTrp nanoparticles induce growth of dendrite-like structures in the PVA films.•AgTrp reside at the interface of the dendrites and the amorphous parts of PVA.•Illumination of PVA-AgTrp with 250 nm light causes 200% increase in conductance.