Versatile electrostatic assembly of nanoparticles and polyelectrolytes: Coating, clustering and layer-by-layer processes

Engineered nanoparticles made from noble metals, rare-earth oxides or semiconductors are emerging as the central constituents of future nanotech developments. In this review, a survey of the complexing strategies between nanoparticles and oppositely charged polyelectrolytes developed during the last three years and based on electrostatic interactions is presented. These strategies include the one-step synthesis of stable and functionalized nanoparticles, the one- and multilayer coating of individual nano-objects, the controlled clustering of particles and the generation of capsules and thin films with superior functionalities. Among the formulation processes reported, three main classes are identified: the direct mixing route, the desalting transition pathway and the well-known layer by layer method. Finally, some latter developments, trends and applications of electrostatic assemblies in materials science and nanomedicine are highlighted.