Green and scalable surface functionalization of silicon quantum dots using water-soluble organic acids for sustainable hybrid materials.

ABSTRACT: Silicon quantum dots (SiQDs) are attractive components for hybrid materials due to their inherently low toxicity, tunable optical properties, high lithium-specific capacity, and mechanical resilience. However, their integration is often hindered by the challenge of forming stable aqueous dispersions, due to their hydrophobic character and susceptibility to oxidation. In this work, we demonstrate that two common and environmentally benign acids, poly(acrylic acid) and phytic acid, can serve not only as dispersants but also as effective surface termination agents for SiQDs. In particular, the modification of surface hydrides was shown to lead to mixed covalent (Si-O-C, Si-O-P) and ionic bonding, resulting in enhanced colloidal stability. The robust covalent attachment and electrostatic stabi

SUBMITTER: Pavel G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12801230 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature