Abstract

The infrared-absorption spectrum of detonation nanodiamond (DND) particles with a surface modified by complexes of nitrate ions is characterized by a narrow line of strong absorption at 1384  cm⁻¹ and an unstructured absorption band in the range of 1000–1300  cm⁻¹. The DND surface is predominantly functionalized with oxygen-containing atomic groups, and the nitrate ion is in a coordinate position over a surface defect in the diamond lattice, i.e., positively charged substitutional nitrogen. Because of heat treatment in air at 350°C, the absorption line at 1384  cm⁻¹ disappears, which indicates the decomposition of the complex and removal of nitrate ions from the surface of the DND particles. The specific form of the infrared-absorption spectrum allows us to consider such a complex on the surface of the DND as a characteristic marker for the detection of these particles in mixtures and suspensions.

© 2017 Optical Society of America