Fabrication of hollow PbS nanospheres and application in phenol release

This article demonstrates a versatile method to prepare the hollow PbS nanospheres via the template method. First, the latex poly (vinyl benzyl chloride) (PVBC) nanoparticles were synthesized by the radical polymerization, followed by the atom transfer reversible polymerization of lead (II) dimethacrylate (Pb (MA)2) on the surfaces of the latex nanoparticles. Then, the ethanethioamide was reacted with the nanoparticles to afford the PbS. By calcination at 600°C for 6 h, the template was removed to obtain the hollow PbS nanospheres. The structure, morphology and optical properties of the hollow PbS nanospheres were carefully investigated. The received hollow PbS nanospheres could be used for the controlled release of phenol after absorbing phenol solution.