Monofunctionalization and dimerization of nanoparticles using coordination chemistry

This paper describes a strategy for controlled nanoparticle dimerization by using a solid support approach. Two types of nanoparticles have been linked by using a 5-([2,2′:6′,2″-terpyridine]-4′-yloxy)pentan-1-amine (terpy-amine) iron complex. The strategy includes two major steps: first, the monofunctionalization of individual nanoparticles with terpy-amine ligand molecules on a solid support, followed by release of monofunctionalized particles and subsequent dimerization. The versatility of the approach was demonstrated by dimerizing two different types of nanoparticles: spherical gold and cube-shaped iron oxide nanoparticles.