Oleylamine in Nanoparticle Synthesis

Wet chemistry in organic solvents has proven highly efficient for the preparation of several types of metallic, metal-oxide, and semiconductor nanostructures. This Short Review focuses on the use of oleylamine (OAm) as a versatile reagent for the synthesis of various nanoparticle systems. We describe the ability of OAm to act as a surfactant, solvent, and reducing agent, as a function of other synthesis parameters. We also discuss the specific role of OAm either alone or in combination with other reactants, to form nanostructures using a variety of organic or inorganic compounds as precursors. In certain cases OAm can form complex compounds with the metal ions of the corresponding precursor, leading to…