A multi-dentate amphiphilic compound, 3,3'-(dodecylazanediyl)-bis-[N-(2-aminoethyl)propanamide] (12C-2NH(2)) has been synthesized. The molecular structure was characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectra, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra, and fast atom bombardment mass (FAB-MS) spectra. 12C-2NH(2) was employed to stabilize silver nanoparticles. Surface properties and stability of silver nanoparticles were controlled by adjusting the 12C-2NH(2) to silver (0) molar ratio. 12C-2NH(2) was also applied to transfer silver nanoparticles from an aqueous to an organic phase. The transfer efficiency depends on 12C-2NH(2) concentration. When 12C-2NH(2) to silver (0) molar ratio was 2:1, the highest efficiency of phase transfer to toluene was obtained. These 12C-2NH(2) stabilized silver nanoparticles are very stable over a period of four days in toluene. (c) 2006 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.