Advancement of bottom-up precipitation synthesis and applications of barium sulphate nanoparticles

Abstract

Barium sulphate nanoparticles (BaSO₄ NPs) have garnered considerable attention owing to their distinctive physicochemical characteristics and varied uses in the polymer industry and medicine. Their synthesis by the bottom-up precipitation process is significantly affected by capping agents, which are crucial for regulating shape and size. BaSO₄ nanoparticles exhibit significant potential in medical imaging, reinforcing of bone cement, and administration of cancer therapeutics, while simultaneously improving the tensile strength, thermal stability, and impact resistance of polymers. This review paper examines the influence of diverse capping agents, including polymers, surfactants, and organic compounds, on the shape and size modulation of nanoparticles. It also analyses reactor modifications, such as rotating packed beds, T-mixers, membrane reactors, and spinning disc reactors, to enhance size distribution. This review also emphasises the prospective applications of BaSO₄ nanoparticles in medical imaging, targeted medication administration, energy storage, and composite materials. Green synthesis techniques and ionic liquid-assisted methods are examined to enhance the sustainable manufacture of BaSO₄ nanoparticles.