A general procedure to functionalize agglomerating nanoparticles demonstrated on nanodiamond.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Surface Chemistry

Background:

• Nanoparticle agglomeration hinders surface modification and applications.
• Effective dispersion techniques are crucial for nanoparticle functionalization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and evaluate a beads-assisted sonication (BASD) method for nanoparticle surface functionalization.
• To overcome the challenge of nanodiamond agglomeration in solvent-based reactions.

Main Methods:

• Utilized beads-assisted sonication (BASD) to break nanodiamond agglomerates.
• Performed simultaneous surface functionalization via silanization and arylation.
• Investigated the role of ceramic beads and sonication energy.

Main Results:

• BASD successfully functionalized individual nanodiamond particles, even those initially insoluble.
• The method improved solubility through the formation of smaller, functionalized agglomerates.
• Mechanical surface modification by BASD created sp2-hybridized patches, enhancing aryl grafting.

Conclusions:

• BASD is a robust technique for achieving stable, homogeneous functionalization of nanodiamonds.
• This method facilitates diverse nanoparticle applications by enabling effective surface chemistry.