Application of a Versatile Nanoparticle Stabilizer in Phase Transfer and Catalysis

Gold and rhodium nanoparticles stabilized by a cationic polymer can be readily modified by anion exchange to afford nanoparticles that may be dispersed in a wide range of organic solvents and ionic liquids. The catalytic activity of the Rh nanoparticle dispersions have been evaluated in the selective hydrogenation of limonene and the nature of the solvent has been shown to play a critical role.