Oleic acid stabilized anatase TiO2 nanorods were prepared.
Phase transfer to aqueous phase was studied.
Interdigitation with RN(CH3)3+ was ineffective.
Interdigitation with amphiphilic polymer led to phase transfer with aggregation.
Ligand exchange with polar catechols gave stable aqueous dispersions.
Decarboxylation of oleic acid on the TiO2 nanorods occurred in alkaline aqueous solution.