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Silicon nanoparticles (SiNPs) can be challenging to prepare with defined size, crystallinity, composition, and surface chemistry. As is the case for any nanomaterial, controlling these parameters is essential if SiNPs are to realize their full potential in areas such as alternative energy generation and storage, sensors, and medical imaging. Numerous teams have explored and established innovative synthesis methods, as well as surface functionalization protocols to control these factors. Furthermore, substantial effort has been expended to understand how the abovementioned parameters influence material properties. In the present review we provide a commentary highlighting the benefits and limitations of available methods for preparing silicon nanoparticles as well as demonstrations of tailoring optical and electronic properties through definition of structure (i.e., crystalline vs. amorphous), composition and surface chemistry. Finally, we highlight potential opportunities for future SiNP studies.

Doped silicon nanocrystals (SiNCs) are promising materials that could find use in a wide variety of applications. Realizing methods to tailor the surface chemistry of these particles offers greater tunability of the material properties as well as broader solvent compatibility. Herein, we report organic-soluble B-doped SiNCs prepared via a thermal processing method followed by phosphorous pentachloride etching induced functionalization with alkoxy ligands of varied chain lengths. This approach provides a scalable route to solution processable B-doped SiNCs and establishes a potential avenue for the functionalization of other doped SiNCs.