Polydiacetylene-zinc oxide-zinc(II)-cationic surfactant nanocomposites as colorimetric sensors of various polymers: Effects of solvents and cationic surfactants

Abstract

Polymer industry plays a crucial role in our lifestyle. Different methods have been used to identify polymers, but they are often costly and time-consuming. One of the uncomplicated and worthwhile methods is chromatic sensor. This study demonstrates polydiacetylene (PDA)-based colorimetric sensors for detecting various polymers such as poly(methyl methacrylate), poly(ethylene succinate), poly(propylene carbonate), and aliphatic polyesters. Preparation of the sensors utilizes simple mixing of PDA/zinc(II) ion/zinc oxide nanocomposites and cationic surfactants in organic solvents. Results show that the structures of organic solvents and cationic surfactants strongly affect the sensitivity to specific polymers. Furthermore, the sensors can distinguish polymers with different functional groups. The colorimetric detection of polymers at different concentrations can be achieved by varying the concentration of cation surfactants. The colorimetric sensors is versatile and low-cost, suitable for real-life applications. Our results provide a new developing path of PDA-based colorimetric sensors for qualitative and semi-quantitative analysis of various polymers.