Enhancing properties by the use of nanoparticles

Abstract

Composite materials comprising nanoparticles functionalized with metals are disclosed. The composite materials may be used in a variety of applications, including in coating compositions, cosmetic and pharmaceutical compositions, absorbent articles, and the like.

1 - 8 . (canceled) 
     
     
         9 . A solid comprising the composite material of  claim 30 . 
     
     
         10 . A gel comprising the composite material of  claim 30 . 
     
     
         11 - 29 . (canceled) 
     
     
         30 . A composite material comprising (a) an exfoliated nanoparticle comprising synthetic hectorite having a surface and a largest dimension of about 1 to 1000 nm, and (b) silver in the neutral (0) metal state, wherein the silver is loaded onto the surface of the exfoliated nanoparticle. 
     
     
         31 . A solution comprising a solvent and 0.0025 to 0.02 weight % of a composite material comprising (a) an exfoliated nanoparticle comprising synthetic hectorite having a surface and a largest dimension of about 1 to 1000 nm, and (b) silver in the neutral (0) metal state, wherein the silver is loaded onto the surface of the exfoliated nanoparticle. 
     
     
         32 . The solution of  claim 31 , wherein the solvent comprises water. 
     
     
         33 . The solution of  claim 31 , wherein the solvent comprises an organic solvent selected from the group consisting of ethanol, methanol, propanol, isopropanol, ethylene glycol, acetone and mixtures thereof.