Asymmetric Composite Nanoparticles with Anisotropic Surface Functionalities
Asymmetric inorganic/organic composite nanoparticles with anisotropic surface functionalities represent a new approach for creating smart materials, requiring the selective introduction of chemical groups to dual components of composite, respectively. Here, we report the synthesis of snowman-like as...
| Main Authors: | , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Hindawi Limited
2009-01-01
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| Series: | Journal of Nanomaterials |
| Online Access: | http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2009/620269 |
| Summary: | Asymmetric inorganic/organic composite nanoparticles with anisotropic surface functionalities represent a new approach for creating smart materials, requiring the selective introduction of chemical groups to dual components of composite, respectively. Here, we
report the synthesis of snowman-like asymmetric silica/polystyrene heterostructure with
anisotropic functionalities via a chemical method, creating nanostructure possibly offering
two-sided biologic accessibility through the chemical groups. Carboxyl group was introduced
to polystyrene component of the snowman-like composites by miniemulsion polymerization
of monomer on local surface of silica particles. Moreover, amino group was then grafted to
remained silica surface through facile surface modification of the composite nanoparticles.
The asymmetric shape of these composites was confirmed by TEM characterization.
Moreover, characteristics of anisotropic surface functionalities were indicated by Zeta
potential measurement and confocal laser microscopy after being labeled with fluorescent
dyes. This structure could find potential use as carriers for biological applications. |
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| ISSN: | 1687-4110 1687-4129 |