ZnO SiO2 Core Shell Nanoparticles (Zinc Oxide/Silica, 99.9%, APS: 80-100nm, Metal Oxide Core)

ZnO SiO2 Core-Shell Nanoparticles

Applications

Biomedical Applications

Drug Delivery:

The SiO₂ shell can be functionalized with targeting moieties (e.g., antibodies, peptides, or small molecules) that allow the nanoparticles to selectively target specific cells or tissues for drug delivery. This enhances the efficacy of the treatment while minimizing side effects.

The core-shell structure allows the ZnO core to load and release therapeutic agents (such as chemotherapeutic drugs or nucleic acids) in a controlled manner, improving the efficiency of the drug delivery system.

Biosensing:

Due to their fluorescent properties, ZnO/SiO₂ nanoparticles can be used in biosensing for the detection of biomolecules such as DNA, proteins, or small molecules. The SiO₂ shell provides a stable and biocompatible platform for attaching sensing elements, such as antibodies or aptamers, for specific molecular detection.

These nanoparticles are also being investigated for cell imaging and labeling in biological studies, where their fluorescence can help track cellular processes.

Environmental Applications

Water and Air Purification:

ZnO is a highly effective photocatalyst under UV light, and ZnO/SiO₂ nanoparticles are increasingly used for environmental remediation applications, such as water purification and air cleaning. The SiO₂ shell improves the photocatalytic efficiency of the ZnO core by reducing surface recombination of charge carriers and improving stability.

These nanoparticles can break down harmful organic pollutants, such as pesticides, industrial dyes, and pharmaceutical residues, into non-toxic byproducts when exposed to UV light, making them useful in water treatment and environmental cleanup processes.

Pollution Monitoring:

The ZnO/SiO₂ nanoparticles can be incorporated into sensing devices for detecting environmental pollutants such as heavy metals, toxins, and gaseous pollutants. The SiO₂ shell helps the nanoparticles remain stable in various environmental conditions, while the ZnO core provides sensitivity to changes in the surrounding environment, such as the presence of toxic substances.

Optical and Photonic Devices

UV Protection:

The ZnO core has excellent UV absorption properties, and the SiO₂ shell can be used to enhance the UV-blocking properties of ZnO-based materials. This makes ZnO/SiO₂ core-shell nanoparticles useful in sunscreens, UV protective coatings, and cosmetic formulations to protect the skin from harmful UV radiation.