Facile synthesis of complex multi-component organic and organic–magnetic inorganic nanocomposite particles

Abstract

A generic in situ method for producing triple component hydrophobic inorganic–organic nanocomposite particles, using a combination of modified emulsion templating and freeze-drying, is presented. Model nanocomposite particles have been developed bearing up to three hydrophobic ingredients chosen from polystyrene, oil red and 15–20 nm oleic acid-coated super-paramagnetic iron oxide (Fe₃O₄) nanoparticles. The technique avoids harsh conditions, in situ polymer synthesis and lengthy workup procedures, and results in high incorporation of magnetic particles (approximately 80% of triple-component nanocomposite particles contain magnetite) with retention of super-paramagnetism (>90% preservation). The nanocomposites have been characterised using dynamic light scattering, and studied under static and flow conditions in the presence of magnetic fields. Drug release was demonstrated using model nanocomposite particles bearing ibuprofen with differing hydrophobic polymer; polycaprolactone and poly(n-butyl methacrylate). Drug release varied with temperature, suggesting the synthetic technique could thus be adopted to develop drug carrier particles with tailored drug release properties.