Chemical functionalization can be achieved through various methods, including:
1. Covalent Bonding: This involves the formation of a stable covalent bond between the functional group and the nanoparticle surface. Techniques like click chemistry and silanization are commonly used. 2. Non-Covalent Interactions: These include Van der Waals forces, hydrogen bonding, and π-π interactions. These methods are often reversible and less stable than covalent bonding. 3. Electrostatic Interactions: This method involves the use of charged molecules to functionalize the nanoparticle surface. It is commonly used in the functionalization of gold nanoparticles and other metallic nanoparticles.