Conductive Core–Shell\nNanoparticles: Synthesis\nand Applications

Abstract

“Smart” materials are gaining widespread\nattention\nand popularity due to their innovative ability to provide additional\nfunctionalities that go beyond the capabilities of traditional materials.\nMoreover, interesting phenomena surge at the transition from the microscale\nto the nanoscale, where significant changes in their properties occur\ndue to the emergence of quantum effects. However, these often combine\nmaterials of different nature which might be difficult to merge. This\ncan be solved by the use of core–shell structures, as they\nhave the ability to combine different materials with an enhanced functionality\nallowing for their application-specific tailoring. Here, various synthesis\ntechniques of core–shell nanostructures featuring a conductive\nshell are outlined, including physical and chemical methods, and their\ninfluence on the final electrical properties of the nanoparticles.\nThis work also discusses the most common conductive polymers used\nas shell materials, exploring their impact on the nanoparticles’\nperformance. Applications across a wide range of fields ranging from\nbiomedicine for cancer intervention to energy storage, catalysis,\nand microelectronics are reviewed, showcasing the potential of these\nversatile nanoparticles to drive technological advances. Challenges\nrelated to their synthesis, material compatibility, and environmental\nconcerns are acknowledged, with suggestions for future research directions.\nSelecting the appropriate synthesis strategy is pivotal for the successful\ndevelopment of conductive core–shell nanoparticles, directly\nimpacting their functionality and applicability.