Influence of nanoprecipitation techniques on lignin nanoparticle structure

Abstract

Lignin nanoparticles (LNPs) have garnered significant interest as sustainable and bioactive materials, finding promising applications across diverse fields. In this study, we synthesized LNPs using four nanoprecipitation methods: dialysis, evaporation, dilution, and acidic dilution. Our investigation delved into how these methods affect LNP morphology and properties. Results unequivocally demonstrate the profound impact of the chosen nanoprecipitation method on LNP characteristics. Dialysis and dilution methods yielded LNPs distinguished by their pronounced hollowness, with an average diameter of 330 nm and 430 nm, whereas the evaporation and acidic dilution methods resulted in less hollow structures with average diameter of 270 nm and 800 nm. The duration of unstable conditions during synthesis significantly influenced particle aggregation, giving rise to a broad size distribution. Furthermore, our prepared LNPs showcased exceptional antioxidant activity (>80 % radical scavenging activity at 0.05 mg/mL of LNPs) and potent antibacterial efficacy against gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus. This study not only offers crucial insights into optimizing LNP synthesis but also elucidates the nexus between different nanoprecipitation methods and resulting morphology and functionality. The findings provide a fundamental framework for tailoring LNP properties to specific applications, advancing sustainable and eco-friendly technologies within the biomedical, nanotechnology, and materials science domains.