A method for surface modification of a substrate comprising surface oxide and/or hydroxy groups, with a compound comprising an ester group and an epoxy ring, wherein the epoxy group remains intact after the reacting. A method for surface modification of a substrate comprising surface oxide and/or hydroxy groups, with a compound comprising an ester group and a functionalized epoxy ring, wherein the functionalized epoxy group remains intact after the reacting. A composite material comprising surface-modified metal oxide nanoparticles dispersed within a polymeric material, wherein the surface modification comprises a compound comprising an ester group and an epoxy ring is also described.