Are you trying to create nanoparticles using biotechnology, but struggling to decide which technique to use? With so many options available, it can be challenging to determine which one will work best for your specific application. In this article, we’ll compare two popular methods: high-pressure homogenization and ultrasonication.
High-pressure homogenization
High-pressure homogenization (HPH) is a common process used in the synthesis of nanoparticles. During HPH, the sample is pumped through a small orifice at a high pressure, creating turbulence and intense shear forces that break down larger particles. The pressure is typically between 100 and 2000 bar, while the sample volume is often relatively low, in the range of milliliters.
One major advantage of HPH is its ability to create a narrow size distribution of particles. In addition, it can be used with a variety of materials, including polymers, organic and inorganic substances, and biopolymers. However, HPH can often lead to aggregation in the final product if not carefully monitored, which can reduce the overall yield of the nanoparticles.
Ultrasonication
Ultrasonication is another technique commonly used in nanoparticle synthesis. During ultrasonication, sound waves are passed through a liquid sample to create cavitation, which generates microbubbles. As these microbubbles collapse, intense energy is released, breaking down larger particles into smaller ones. The sample volume used in ultrasonication is often larger, but the shear forces generated are typically lower than in HPH.
One significant advantage of ultrasonication is its ability to provide efficient and uniform dispersion, which leads to a higher yield of nanoparticles. However, the size distribution of the particles created with ultrasonication can be broader than that of HPH, creating a mixture of large and small particles in the final product.
Which technique to choose?
The selection of the appropriate technique depends on your specific application. If you need a narrow size distribution of particles, consider high-pressure homogenization. However, if you require a higher yield of nanoparticles with a broader size distribution, ultrasonication may be the better choice.
Ultimately, both techniques have their strengths and weaknesses. By understanding the advantages and potential downsides of each, you can determine which one will work best for your needs.
References
- Dehghani, F., & Foster, N. R. (2012). The effect of high-pressure homogenization on the properties of polysaccharide-based nanoparticles. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 52(5), 432-443. doi:10.1080/10408398.2010.500200
- Fan, L., Zhang, Y., Wu, X., Lei, L., & Yang, C. (2019). Effective nanoparticle formation via ultrasonic assisted nanoprecipitation for curcumin encapsulation. Ultrasonics sonochemistry, 57, 129-139. doi:10.1016/j.ultsonch.2019.04.012
- Pelaz, B., Grazu, V., Ibarra, A., Magen, C., del Pino, P., & de la Fuente, J. M. (2014). Tailoring the synthesis and heating of gold nanoprisms for optical hyperthermia applications. Nanotechnology, 25(2), 1-10. doi:10.1088/0957-4484/25/2/025701