Nanoparticles in Phospholipid Membrane Environments
Project Information
Funding Information
| Country | Canada |
| Anticipated Total Funding | $86,883.00 |
| Annual Funding | $43,441.50 |
| Funding Source | NSERC |
| Funding Mechanism | Extramural |
| Funding Sector | Government |
| Start Year | 2005 |
| Anticipated End Year | 2007 |
Abstract/Summary
Metal and semiconductor nanoparticles are certain to be a major player in the world of nanomaterials. Their remarkable optical, electronic, and physical properties are already finding use in devices and biosensors. These nanoparticles can be used in important applications because they are stabilized with small molecules (ligands) which form a protective layer on the 1-15nm particles. Without this protective layer the particles will aggregate and revert to the bulk material state. This proposal is directed toward a detailed assessment of the mechanism by which these ligands can be released by the nanoparticles and replaced with another ligand or ion. This is important because the released ligands tend to be chemically reactive and may participate in undesired secondary reactions. Understanding the mechanism of ligand release will allow for a rational design of new ligands with a lesser rate or extent of release.
