Patterning of copper particles on polymeric surface

In situ synthesis of fine copper particles (> 200 nm) has been carried out using borohydride reduction in preorganized gel of poly(vinyl alcohol). The copper ions were chelated by polymer matrix at room temperature thorough physical entrapment along with a weak chemical complexation. The process is akin to biomimetic route and demonstrates a high order of control over nucleation, growth, and morphologies as well as orientation of the end product. The organized arrays of copper sulfate precipitate and copper particles replicate the conformation of organic matrix and form patterned structures similar to one observed in stationary chemical waves.