High surface area carbonate apatite nanorod bundles: Surfactant-free sonochemical synthesis and drug loading and release properties

The design and synthesis of calcium phosphates (CPs) nanostructures with high specific surface areas are significant for drug delivery systems. Herein, we report a simple surfactant-free sonochemical synthesis of carbonate apatite (CAP) nanorod bundles with a high specific surface area (183.39 m2 g−1) using an aqueous solution of CaCl2·2H2O and (NH4)2HPO4. The effects of experimental parameters including reactant species, pH value, calcium ion concentration, reaction time on the specific surface area of the product were investigated. The products were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The as-prepared CAP nanorod bundles were explored as the drug nanocarrier, which exhibited a sustained drug release behavior in simulated body fluid.

Graphical abstractWe report a simple surfactant-free sonochemical synthesis of carbonate apatite nanorod bundles with high specific surface areas. The as-prepared carbonate apatite nanorod bundles are explored as the drug nanocarrier, which exhibit a sustained drug release behavior in simulated body fluid.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► A simple surfactant-free sonochemical method has been demonstrated. ► Carbonate apatite nanorod bundles with high specific surface areas are obtained. ► Effects of experimental parameters on the product are investigated. ► Carbonate apatite nanorod bundles exhibit sustained drug release.