Core–shell nanomaterials based on La2Fe2O6 particles coated with polyvinylpyrrolidone for biomedical applications

Abstract

This study focused on a facile and low-cost approach to synthesize La2Fe2O6/PVP core/shell nanoparticles in which the La2Fe2O6 can be incorporated into the polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). La2Fe2O6 (core) was prepared as the precursor by a modified citrate technique, then the PVP (shell) was seeded to form core/shell structure at various pH conditions. The variation of pH plays an important role in controlling the morphology of the investigated samples. The structural and morphological characterization of samples were carried out using X-ray analysis and High-resolution transmission electron micrographs (HRTEM), respectively. All samples exhibit orthorhombic crystal structure with Pbnm space group. Moreover, the particles in La2Fe2O6 are not stable enough and have a high tendency to aggregate and undergo rapid biodegradation in biological systems. However, La2Fe2O6/PVP Core/shell has antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), Escherichia coli (E. coli), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) by 13.0, 11.0, and 12.0 mm inhibition zone diameter (IZD), respectively. Furthermore, coating La2Fe2O6 with a PVP shell optimizes nanoparticles size distribution and agglomeration. The unique magnetic properties prompt the use of the investigated samples in diverse fields.