Synthesis of main-chain imidazolium-based hyperbranched polymeric ionic liquids and their application in the stabilization of Ag nanoparticles

Imidazolium-functionalized hyperbranched polymeric ionic liquids (HPILs) are synthesized by one-step reaction between tri-imidazolium-based ester (A 3 monomer) and dihaloalkane (B 2 monomer), which can act as efficient stabilizers in the preparation of silver nanoparticles . The particle size and solubility of nanoparticles mainly depend on the chemical structure of stabilizer, molecular weights of HPILs, and concentration of reagent. The obtained HPIL-encapsulated Ag nanoparticles were characterized by ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) absorption and transmission electron microscopy , showing a uniform size distribution and appreciable stability in water for a longer period.