Deagglomeration and functionalisation of detonation nanodiamond with long alkyl chains

We have achieved the covalent functionalisation of detonation nanodiamond by an esterification reaction of carboxylic acid chlorides on hydroxylated nanodiamond. The resulting nanodiamond esters with a surface loading of 0.3-0.4 mmol g(-1) of alkyl groups have been characterized by FTIR spectroscopy, thermogravimetry and elemental analysis. They exhibit a significantly improved dispersibility in organic solvents such as tetra hydrofurane and dichloromethane. (C) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.