Preparation of Ag/C fiber with nanostructure through in situ thermally induced redox reaction between PVA and AgNO3 and its catalysis for 4-nitrophenol reduction

A novel synthesized Ag/C fibrous catalyst based on in situ thermally induced redox reaction of PVA/AgNO3 composite fibers was proposed. Utilizing the plasticization and complexation of AgNO3 solution, the melt spinning of PVA/AgNO3 composites was accomplished. Through the in situ thermally induced redox reaction on PVA/AgNO3 composite fibers combined with carbonization of PVA and reduction of Ag+, the synthesized Ag/C fibrous catalyst was prepared with nanosilver particles with average diameter of 130 nm immobilized on the loose microstructural carbon layers. The synthesized Ag/C fibrous catalyst exhibited excellent catalytic activity and reused for at least five cycles for the reduction of 4-nitrophenol, which may hold great promise in effective and eco-friendly waste water treatment.