Core–shell hybrid nanomaterials based on CoFe2O4 particles coated with PVP or PEG biopolymers for applications in biomedicine

Monodisperse core–shell hybrid nanoparticles based on cobalt ferrite (CoFe2O4) particles coated with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) or polyethylene glycol (PEG) biopolymers were obtained employing a two-step procedure: the CoFe2O4 of 21 nm mean particle size were first synthesized by coprecipitation method assisted by PVP soft template and then were coated by PVP or PEG biopolymers. The effect of the thermal treatment upon the phase evolution of the obtained precursor from the coprecipitation step was monitored by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses. The FTIR spectra also indicated the interaction between the cobalt ferrite particles and the two polymers were used as biocompatible coatings. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Selected Area Electron Diffraction (SAED) analyses revealed the formation of approximately 22 nm CoFe2O4-PVP and CoFe2O4-PEG hybrid nanoparticles. The magnetic measurements indicated that all synthesized hybrids were appropriate for applying in biomedical field. Testing the bioeffect of the uncoated cobalt ferrite nanoparticles and corresponding hybrids on Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica serovar typhimurium bacteria and Candida scotti yeast it was clear that no significant toxic activity was obtained. Moreover, all the prepared nanohybrids and their components possess antioxidant activity.

Graphical abstractThe schematic representation of the core–shell hybrid materials containing the CoFe2O4 core and PEG or PVP shells described in this study was obtained by a facile, large scale, non-toxic and cost efficient two step method which may be versatile for the synthesis of other hybrid nanomaterial based ferrites coated with polymers.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Core-shell hybrids based on Co2Fe2O4 nanoparticles coated by PVP or PEG polymers. ► Superparamgnetic properties of nanohybrids. ► Antioxidant activity activity of nanohybrids.