Surface modification of inorganic nanoparticles is critical
for
the quality and performance of pigments, cosmetics, and composite
materials. We covered the titanium dioxide nanoparticles’ surface
with 2-(acetoacetoxy) ethyl methacrylate, a polymerizable chelating
agent. Through the in situ polymerization procedure, this molecule’s
β-ketoester moiety quickly coordinated with the metal atoms
on titanium dioxide nanoparticles, and its methacrylate group formed
homogeneous coating layers. This coating layer significantly reduced
the photocatalytic activity of titanium dioxide nanoparticles and
prevented their aggregation. This nanoparticle dispersion showed low
viscosity up to the solid content of 60% (w/w) in the liquid dispersant.
As a result, it increased the UV screening performance and dispersion
stability. Additionally, this coating layer widened the absorption
spectrum of titanium dioxide and could change the color of nanoparticles
from pale yellow to brown. It can also be helpful for cosmetic applications.