Synthesis, characterization and optimization of Silica nanostructures by use of structure modifiers and ultrasonication

In recent years, using Sol-gel procedure for the purpose of laboratory and industrial synthesis of Nano-structures, and especially silica Nano-particles, has been significantly increased. In this research, silica particles were synthesized by Sol-gel procedure and their physical and chemical properties were studied by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA). The effect of structural modifiers on the morphology and diameter of Nano-particles was also investigated. In addition, the reaction was carried out in the presence of ultrasonic waves in periods of 10, 30 and 60 minutes and the effect of these waves on the different stages of reaction was studied by means of SEM. Moreover, spherical particles of 50 to 80 nanometer sizes were synthesized and characterized that can be very useful hosts for lanthanide complexes which can be used in drug delivery systems, radiotherapy, photo luminescence (PL), applications and manufacturing of special lasers. Different amounts of Lanthanum nitrate hexahydrate were also added to the mixture during the creation of nanoparticles. Then simulated body fluid (SBF) was produced to study both, the capability of these Nano-structures in regulated delivery of drugs such as lanthanides, and releasing of lanthanides in 10 minute periods for 80 hours. Finally, lanthanide concentration in SBF was studied by means of inductively coupled plasma (ICP). According to the obtained results from ICP analysis, loaded lanthanide does not release from silica network. These loaded lanthanides to mesoporous silica can be used in radiotherapy and particularly in liver cancer.