Synthesis of Ultra Small Biocompatible Magnetic Nanocomposites by Seeded Emulsion Polymerization

摘要

We report an approach of seeded emulsion polymerization in which inorganic nanocrystals act as seeds. Ultrasmall biocompatible magnetic polymer coated nanocrystal could be prepared with sizes between 15 nm and 110 nm in a process that avoids any treatment with high shear forces or ultrasonication. The number of nanocrystals per seed and the shell thickness can be independently adjusted. Thus single encapsulated nanocrystals as well as clusters of nanocrystals can be obtained with thin or thick polymer shell. Polysorbat-80 was used as surfactant. It consists of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) chains, giving the particles outstanding biofunctional characteristics such as a minimization of unspecific interactions.