Synthesis of Gadolinium Nanoparticles as a CT-Scan Contrast Agent with Pulse Laser Ablation Method

Abstract

The use of iodine contrast agents on CT Scan clinically shows a short-term blood circulation, non-specific biodistribution and causes side effects on kidneys. Nanoparticles have a longer half-time vascular than molecular contrast agents so it can be observed for a longer time after injection. Gadolinium (Z = 64) has a higher atomic number and X-ray absorbance coefficient than iodine (Z = 53) and does not have the negative effect on kidneys. The Gd nanoparticles development as a CT Scan contrast agent has potential to give more effectiveness than iodine contrast agents. In this study, Gd nanoparticles were synthesized using pulsed laser ablation method with wavelength 1064 nm, energy 45 mJ, and pulse width 7 ns. The ablation process was carried out for 180 minutes with repetition rate of 10 Hz and 15 Hz. The formation of Gd Nanoparticles was analyzed using UV-Vis spectrophotometer and FTIR (Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy). Testing the ability of Gd nanoparticles as a contrast agent was done in the diagnosis of head and abdomen using a CT Scan GE CT Optima 580 RT type 229156-3. UV-Vis spectrophotometer analysis showed that Gd nanoparticles had high absorbance at the wavelength less than 250 nm which indicated the formation of Gd2(OH)3 compounds. The repetition rate difference in ablation process resulted in the same concentration of Gd nanoparticles with different contrasts. Repetition rate of 10 Hz produced Gd nanoparticles with HU greater than repetition rate of 15 Hz and closer to HU of iodine. The results indicate that Gd nanoparticles can be used as a CT Scan contrast agent.