What are the Common Techniques in Post Synthesis Processing?
Purification Purification is often the first step in post synthesis processing. It involves removing impurities and byproducts that may have been introduced during the synthesis process. Techniques such as centrifugation, filtration, and dialysis are commonly used.
Functionalization Functionalization involves attaching functional groups to the surface of nanomaterials to enhance their chemical reactivity or biocompatibility. This is especially important in applications like drug delivery and biosensing. Methods such as silane coupling and click chemistry are often employed.
Size and Shape Control Controlling the size and shape of nanomaterials can significantly impact their properties. Techniques like annealing, etching, and milling are used to achieve desired dimensions and morphologies.
Dispersion Nanomaterials tend to agglomerate due to their high surface energy. Dispersing them uniformly in a medium is crucial for applications like composites and coatings. Ultrasonication and the use of surfactants are common methods for achieving good dispersion.
Surface Modification Surface modification involves altering the surface characteristics of nanomaterials to improve their interaction with the surrounding environment. This can be done through techniques like plasma treatment and grafting.
