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A convenient phase transfer protocol to functionalize gold nanoparticles with short alkylamine ligands
Guang Yang1, Wen-Sheng Chang2, Daniel T Hallinan1
1Florida State University, Aero-Propulsion, Mechatronics & Energy Center, 2003 Levy Avenue, Tallahassee, FL 32310, USA; Florida A&M University - Florida State University College of Engineering, Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, 2525 Potsdammer Street, Tallahassee, FL 32310, USA.
Researchers developed a novel method to transfer gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) from water to organic solvents using short alkylamine ligands. This technique preserves nanoparticle size and shape, enabling new applications in nanotechnology.
Area of Science:
- Nanotechnology
- Materials Science
- Surface Chemistry
Background:
- Direct transfer of aqueous citrate-stabilized gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) to immiscible organic solvents is challenging with short alkyl ligands.
- Modifying interfacial energy and area is crucial for transferring Au NPs across water-organic interfaces.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a method for transferring aqueous Au NPs to organic solvents.
- To functionalize Au NPs with short amine ligands during the transfer process.
- To evaluate the stability and integrity of transferred Au NPs.
Main Methods:
- Aqueous citrate-stabilized Au NPs were treated with hexane, alkylamine, and acetone to form an interfacial film.
- The liquid phases were removed, and Au NPs were redispersed in tetrahydrofuran (THF).
- Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) were used to analyze Au NP characteristics.
Main Results:
- 13nm diameter Au NPs were successfully segregated from water using short alkylamine ligands.
- Transferred Au NPs formed a stable film at the water/organic solvent interface, facilitating separation and redispersion.
- Au NPs retained their original size and shape after transfer and functionalization with amine ligands.
- Amine-functionalized Au NPs in THF demonstrated stability for at least 27 days.
Conclusions:
- A facile method for transferring aqueous Au NPs to organic solvents was established.
- The developed technique preserves Au NP integrity and allows for ligand functionalization.
- This approach offers a promising route for utilizing Au NPs in organic-based nanotechnological applications.
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