Versatile Electrostatic Assembly of Nanoparticles & Polyelectrolytes: Coating, Clustering and Layer-by-Layer Processes
arXiv:1108.4769
Abstract
Engineered nanoparticles made from noble metals, rare-earth oxides or semiconductors are emerging as the central constituents of future nanotech developments. In this review, a survey of the complexing strategies between nanoparticles and oppositely charged polyelectrolytes developed during the last three years and based on electrostatic interactions is presented. These strategies include the one-step synthesis of stable and functionalized nanoparticles, the one- and multilayer coating of individual nano-objects, the controlled clustering of particles and the generation of capsules and thin films with superior functionalities. Among the formulation processes reported, three main classes are identified : the direct mixing route, the desalting transition pathway and the well-known layer by layer method. Finally, some latter developments, trends and applications of electrostatic assemblies in materials science and nanomedicine are highlighted
review article for Current Opinion in Colloid and Interface Science, 23 pages, 3 figures