Scale Up Quantities of Metal Oxide Nanoparticles with Preferred Surface Properties

Abstract

The University of Central Florida invention is a material synthesis process that enables companies to produce higher yields of metal oxide nanoparticles (NPs) while maintaining desired surface properties and without degrading the material. NPs offer a wide range of commercial applications, from catalysis to electronics to biomedicine. NPs are known for a high surface-to-volume ratio and are engineered for specific uses based on surface features (+3, +4), particle size, and other properties not achieved in bulk materials.

Processes for NP synthesis routinely use organic ligands (a molecule, an atom, or a group of atoms) to control particle size, growth and morphology. However, the ligands can be hydrophobic, highly insulating, and alter the NP crystal surface structure, thus limiting the NPs’ broader uses. As a solution, UCF researchers developed an approach for eliminating such drawbacks and removing organic ligands that show strong toxicity toward biological cells.

Technical Details

The UCF technology is a room-temperature synthesis method for scaling up quantities of metal oxide preparations such as cerium oxide or titanium oxide NPs. A two-phase (top and bottom) synthesis technique, the technology uses stripping agents (molecules) that mediate the removal of unwanted surface-bound ligands for bare particle surface (versus coated). Stripping agents may comprise sodium tetrafluoroborate (NaBF), trisodium phosphate (Na3PO4), and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2).

In one example application, the method includes dissolving the stripping agents in an aqueous solution, such as de-ionized water and biological buffers. A colloidal suspension immiscible with water is then added over the aqueous solution. During the top phase, vigorous stirring allows the stripping agents to interact with the particles and remove or replace the ligands. The particles then transfer to the bottom phase. The stripped organic ligands remain dispersed in the top phase, eliminating chances for final sample contamination.

Partnering Opportunity

The research team is looking for partners to develop the technology further for commercialization.

Benefit

Market Application