Post-synthesis dispersion of metal nanoparticles by poly(amidoamine) dendrimers: size-selective inclusion, water solubilization, and improved catalytic performance

Chem Commun (Camb). 2012 Aug 4;48(60):7441-3. doi: 10.1039/c2cc31039b. Epub 2012 Mar 23.

Abstract

Intermetallic Pt(3)Ti nanoparticles are solubilized in water by using a generation-five, hydroxyl-terminated, poly(amidoamine) dendrimer, G5OH, as a post-synthesis surfactant. Pt(3)Ti nanoparticles, encapsulated in G5OH and dispersed over the electrode surface, exhibited a superior catalytic activity toward the electro-reduction reaction of oxygen compared to as-prepared, highly agglomerated nanoparticles.