Facile fabrication of mesoporous silica micro-jets with multi-functionalities

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Chemical Engineering

Background:

• Self-propelled micro/nano-devices offer autonomous motion and task fulfillment.
• Tubular micro-jets are a key type of micro/nano-device, but versatile fabrication methods are needed.
• Existing fabrication methods for tubular micro-jets have limitations in material versatility and multi-functionalization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a facile and cost-effective strategy for fabricating mesoporous silica micro-jets (MSMJs).
• To demonstrate the multi-functionalization capabilities of MSMJs for various applications.
• To explore the potential of MSMJs in environmental and biomedical fields.

Main Methods:

• Developed a simple, equipment-free synthesis for mesoporous silica micro-jets (MSMJs).
• Functionalized MSMJs internally, externally, or both with various metal nanoparticles (e.g., silver, gold).
• Evaluated MSMJs for heavy metal removal and controlled drug delivery.

Main Results:

• Successfully fabricated MSMJs using a facile and cost-effective method.
• Demonstrated that functionalization with nanoparticles imparts properties like antibacterial effects (AgNPs) and SERS sensing (AuNPs).
• Showcased efficient heavy metal removal from contaminated water and controlled active drug delivery using MSMJs.

Conclusions:

• Mesoporous silica micro-jets (MSMJs) offer a promising platform for multi-functional micromotors.
• The simple fabrication and high porosity of MSMJs enable efficient environmental and biomedical applications.
• MSMJs represent versatile and efficient tools for various desired tasks.