May 8 2013
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Image Credits: Meletios Verras/shutterstock.com
Silicon dioxide nanoparticles, also known as silica nanoparticles or nano-silica, are the basis for a great deal of biomedical research due to their stability, low toxicity and ability to be functionalized with a range of molecules and polymers.
Nano-silica particles are divided into P-type and S-type according to their structure. The P-type particles are characterized by numerous nanopores, which have a pore rate of 0.61 ml/g and exhibit a higher ultraviolet reflectivity compared to the S-type; the latter also has a comparatively smaller surface area.
Chemical Properties
Chemical Data
|
| Chemical symbol |
SiO2 |
| CAS No |
7631-86-9 |
| Group |
Silicon 14
Oxygen 16 |
| Electronic configuration |
Silicon [Ne] 3s2 3p2
Oxygen [He] 2s2 2p4 |
Chemical Composition
|
Element
|
Content (%)
|
| Silicon |
46.83 |
| Oxygen |
53.33 |
Physical Properties
Silicon dioxide nanoparticles appear in the form of a white powder. The table below provides the physical properties of these nanoparticles.
Properties
|
Metric
|
Imperial
|
| Density |
2.4 g/cm3 |
0.086 lb/in3 |
| Molar Mass |
59.96 g/mol |
- |
Thermal Properties
| Properties |
Metric |
Imperial |
| Melting Point |
1600°C |
2912°F |
| Boling Point |
2230°C |
4046°F |
Applications
The chief applications of silica nanoparticles are as an additive for the manufacture of rubber and plastics; as a strengthening filler for concrete and other construction composites; and as a stable, non-toxic platform for biomedical applications such as drug delivery and theranostics.
This article was updated on the 11th September, 2019.