Nanomaterial-based Catalyst - Functionalized Nanoparticles

Functionalized Nanoparticles

Functionalized metal nanoparticles are more stable in solution compared to non-functionalized metal nanoparticles. In liquid solutions, the metal nanoparticles are close enough together to be affected by van der Waals force. If there isn’t anything to oppose these forces, then the nanoparticles will aggregate, which will lead to a decrease in catalytic activity by lowering the surface area. For organometallic functionalized nanoparticles, ligands are coordinated to the metal center to prevent aggregation. Using different ligands alters the properties and sizes of the nanoparticle catalysts. Nanoparticles can also be functionalized with polymers or oligomers to sterically stabilize the nanoparticles by providing a protective layer that prevents the nanoparticles from interacting with each other. Alloys of two metals, called bimetallic nanoparticles, are used to create synergistic effects on catalysis between the two metals.