Synthesis and Characterization of Functional Inorganic Nano-Micro Particles and their Role in Innovative Practical Applications

In this thesis, the synthesis of nano-micro particles of crystalline inorganic materials and four different applications involving their use, are presented . Inorganic particles have been synthesized following two main criteria: i) the particle's dimensions, specific surface area and crystalline phase of the product have been optimized for the practical application; ii) both the synthesis and application should be based on a simple procedure, environmental low impact, economical affordability. In particular, Titanium dioxide nanoparticles have been synthesized by sol-gel hydrolysis of Titanium(IV) isopropoxide in an isopropyl alcohol/water solution. The isopropyl alcohol contained in the solvent mixture act as a capping agent stabilizing the forming nanometric particles, and play also a role in the suspension stability. Synthesized Titanium dioxide reveals good photocatalytic properties directly as synthesized, without needing further thermal treatment. Photoactive Titanium dioxide have been used for NOx pollutants abatement on waste gases produced by a working plant and as self-cleaning coating on photovoltaic Silicon panels, showing good results. Crystalline calcium phosphate nano and micro particles, in particular Hydroxyapatite, Brushite, Monetite and Mg-doped ?-Tricalcium phosphate have been synthesized. Two applications of the synthesized Calcium phosphates are reported, both based on the drug delivery concept. Hydroxyapatite nanocrystals were used to adsorbe and retain on their surface anticancer drugs based on a Platinum complex, and release them in response to a pH variation. Phytotherapics active elements have been stabilized by physisorption on Calcium phosphates particles surface. The administration of the obtained suspensions shows good results in terms of plant's healing, using a lower amount of phytotherapic elements compared to the commercial products.