Hollow Carbon Nanobubbles: Synthesis,Chemical Functionalization,and Container‐Type Behavior in Water |
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Authors: | M?Sc Corinne J Hofer Dr Robert N Grass Dr Martin Zeltner M?Sc Carlos A Mora Dr Frank Krumeich Prof?Dr Wendelin J Stark |
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Institution: | Institute for Chemical and Bioengineering, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland |
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Abstract: | Thin‐walled, hollow carbon nanospheres with a hydrophobic interior and good water dispersability can be synthesized in two steps: First, metal nanoparticles, coated with a few layers of graphene‐like carbon, are selectively modified on the outside with a covalently attached hydrophilic polymer. Second, the metal core is removed at elevated temperature treatment with acid, leaving a well‐defined carbon‐based hydrophobic cavity. Loading experiments with the dye rhodamine B and doxorubicin confirmed the filling and release of a cargo and adjustment of a dynamic equilibrium (cargo‐loaded versus release). Rhodamine B preferably accumulates in the interior of the bubbles. Filled nanobubbles allowed constant dye release into pure water. Studies of the concentration‐dependent loading and release show an unusual hysteresis. |
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Keywords: | capsules graphene hydrophobic interactions hysteresis nanostructures |
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