Hybrid Organic Polymer-Inorganic Nanoparticles

Presents an overview of the investigation of hybrid nanoparticles coated with organic, polymeric, and dendritic ligands - from molecules, macromolecules and dendrimers.

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This state-of-the-art book gives a comprehensive overview of the investigation of hybrid nanoparticles coated with organic, polymeric and dendritic ligands - from molecules, macromolecules and dendrimers. The functional organic ligands fulfil both passive and active roles in nanoparticle (metal, semiconductor, oxides) behaviour and properties. However true hybrid character not only combines the properties of both components but results in a new property or phenomena. The book is a thorough examination and differentiation of the class of ligands/shell and hosts that have been used for the synthesis and stabilization of these nanoparticles. It covers several aspects of these interesting materials - the introduction focuses on the unique properties of nanoparticles and its importance in nanoscience and colloidal phenomena. Then follows a focus on inorganic nanoparticle synthesis, characterization, and properties (metal, semiconductor/chalcogenide, and oxide nanoparticles. Following this is a series of chapters focusing on the organic shell/ligands or capping agents with the following classification: small molecule ligands, polymeric ligands, and dendrimeric ligands and hosts.
These chapters focus on the methods of stabilizing, hosting, coating, and exchange reactions with the use of organic molecules and macromolecules which are important divisions, given the variety of investigations that have been carried out through the years. While previous books have focused on inorganic nanoparticles, this book emphasizes the important contribution of the organic and polymer ligands/shell themselves in achieving a true hybrid character. The chapter on characterization methods is important since it describes methods for investigating colloidal phenomena, functional group properties, stability, and finally true hybrid behaviour. Then follows a full chapter on applications which shows the potential of these systems for: model systems and studies, photochemical properties, electro-optical properties, catalytic properties and sensing properties. Finally there is a conclusions and future outlook chapter. The applications and emerging applications for these materials are very relevant to medical, commercial and military applications.