A simple and soft chemical deaggregation method producing single-digit detonation nanodiamonds

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Materials Science
• Chemistry

Background:

• Detonation nanodiamonds (DNDs) are versatile nanoparticles with applications in nanomedicine and polymer reinforcement.
• Achieving single-digit nanometer sizes (<10 nm) is crucial for unlocking the full potential of DNDs.
• Current mechanical deaggregation methods (sonication, bead milling) suffer from contamination and require specialized equipment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a purely chemical, scalable, and contamination-free method for deaggregating detonation nanodiamonds.
• To produce highly stable, single-digit nanometer DNDs suitable for diverse applications.
• To demonstrate the ease of implementation in standard laboratory settings.

Main Methods:

• A two-step chemical process involving oxidation in air followed by boiling acid treatment.
• Utilizing readily available laboratory apparatus for the deaggregation process.
• Characterization of the resulting DNDs for size, surface functionalization, and stability.

Main Results:

• Successfully produced detonation nanodiamonds with sizes below 10 nm.
• The resulting DNDs are surface-functionalized with carboxyl groups.
• The chemical treatment effectively removed metal contaminants (Mg, Fe, Cu) and ensured dispersion over a wide pH range.
• The method is easily reproducible in standard chemistry labs.

Conclusions:

• A novel, purely chemical deaggregation method offers a significant advancement over mechanical techniques for producing single-digit DNDs.
• The resulting carboxyl-functionalized DNDs exhibit high stability and purity, making them ideal for advanced applications.
• This accessible method facilitates the broader adoption of DNDs in materials science, nanomedicine, and beyond.