Surface modification of TiO2 nanoparticles via photocataliticaly induced reaction: Influence of functionality of silane coupling agent

In the present work the surface modification of TiO2 nanoparticles by photocatalyticaly induced reaction with silane coupling agent 3-triethoxysilyl propyl isocianate (PIC) has been presented. It was demonstrated establishing of covalent TiOSi bond between the nanoparticles and the PIC molecule. In comparison with previous results, it was demonstrated the high influence of the functional group from the silane coupling agent on the reaction course during surface functionalziation of TiO2 nanoparticles. Depending on the amount and type (electronegativity of the end-functionalities) of the silane compound, high control of the surface characteristics of TiO2 nanoparticles could be achieved.