Fluorous materials in microbubble engineering science and technology—Design and development of new bubble preparation and sizing technologies

Microbubbles are being used in ultrasound diagnosis imaging, could serve as contrast agents for multiple imaging modalities and for parenteral oxygen delivery, and have potential in materials science as new multi-scale materials for magnetic, optical and magneto-optical devices. We designed new procedures for the preparation of narrowly size-distributed, monomodal microbubble populations, as well as a new multifrequency acoustical device for microbubble sizing. Methods for microbubble stabilization using fluorinated gases and surfactants are also discussed. Prospects include further use of fluorinated amphiphiles for bubble stabilization and size control, and decoration of bubble surface with functional particles (e.g. magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles).

. Microbubbles have potential as multiple modality contrast agents, parenteral oxygen carriers, and multi-scale materials for magnetic, optical and magneto-optical devices. We designed new preparation procedures for narrowly size-distributed, microbubbles, and multifrequency acoustical sizing devices. Fluorocarbon gases stabilize bubbles osmotically, and also—unexpectedly—as co-surfactants with shell phospholipids. Synergistic fluorocarbon gas/fluorosurfactant stabilization was found.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► Use of microbubbles in biomedical sciences—room for progress.
► Development of specific methodology and instrumentation for bubble size characterization.
► Procedures for the preparation of size-controlled, monomodal narrowly dispersed microbubble populations.
► Microbubble stability and property control.