Disclosed herein are scavenging and antifouling nanoparticle compositions useful in applications relating to the production, transportation, storage, and separation of crude oil and natural gas, as well as oral hygiene. Also disclosed are methods of making the nanoparticle compositions as scavengers and antifoulants, particularly in applications relating to the production, transportation, storage, and separation of crude oil and natural gas, as well as oral hygiene.