Phosphonated Polyethylenimine-Coated Nanoparticles: Size- and Zeta-Potential-Adjustable Nanomaterials
Abstract
Novel partially phosphonated polyethylenimine polymers are developed in order to control the modification of nanoparticle (NP) surfaces. This polymer is built by an accessible one-step process. The numerous phosphonate functions assume both a strong covalent anchoring on metal oxide NPs and a modulation of electric charges, while amino groups are associated with dispersion preservation and subsequent biofunctionalization. The zwitterionic nanomaterials obtained display a good stability toward pH and ionic strength. According to the selected percentage of phosphonation and the polymer size, zeta potential, and diameter of the particles are controlled.