Abstract

Subject of the study. This study addresses the quantitative and qualitative features of the complex formation of nanoparticles (NPs) of metallic silver and phthalates. The purpose of this work was to determine the conditions for the formation of stable complexes of silver NPs (Ag NPs) with dibutyl phthalate (DBP) in an aqueous solution. To achieve this goal, a full cycle of comparative studies of Ag NPs was carried out from synthesis to establishment of the possibility of binding DBP for further creation of an accessible sensor based on them capable of detecting various phthalates in water. Methods. Chemical methods were used for the synthesis of NPs, modification of their surface with nucleotides, and connection of NPs with phthalates. To study the interaction of Ag NPs with each component of an organic–inorganic complex, namely, sodium citrate (hereinafter referred to as citrate), uridine-5^′-triphosphate (hereinafter referred to as uridine or UTP), copper ions (Cu²⁺), and DBP, optical spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy were used. Main results. Metallic Ag NPs were synthesized using four agents safe for humans, which acted simultaneously as reducing agents and stabilizers (citrate, polyethylene glycol, polyvinylpyrrolidone, and orange extract). NPs synthesized using sodium citrate were selected for further use as phthalate sensors considering the stability parameters and range of research methods. The change of the Ag NPs’ ligand shell by uridine molecules and the formation of chemical bonds between them and phthalate involving copper ions were shown. Raman spectra and transmission electron microscopy images of Ag/UTP−Cu²⁺−DBP complexes were obtained for the first time to our knowledge, confirming the chemical bonding of Ag NPs and phthalates. The optimal molar ratio of Ag/UTP NPs and copper ions in solution for the subsequent process of complex formation was found. Practical significance. The formation of complexes between DBP and modified Ag NPs in the absence of alcohol and any buffer solutions was shown for the first time to our knowledge. The detection of phthalates using Ag NPs is a promising technology for creating a simple nanosensor with additional plasmonic and antibacterial properties. In addition to its extremely relevant environmental significance today, the study of hybrid systems based on Ag NPs contributes to the development of methods for passivation of the surface of metal NPs. In a broad sense, the research carried out is of interest for the development of technologies for sensory detection of organic–inorganic compounds.

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