How Does Electrostatic Charge Affect Nanoparticles?
The charge distribution on nanoparticles can affect their behavior in several ways:
Stability: Electrostatic repulsion can help stabilize nanoparticles in suspension by preventing aggregation. Conversely, electrostatic attraction can lead to clumping. Interaction with Biological Systems: Charged nanoparticles can interact with cellular membranes and proteins, influencing their uptake, distribution, and potential toxicity. Functionalization: Surface charges can be utilized to attach specific functional groups to nanoparticles, enabling targeted delivery in drug delivery applications.