Synthesis of controlled-size starch nanoparticles and superparamagnetic starch nanocomposites by microemulsion method.

In this study, a synthesis process based on the microemulsion method (ME) was developed with the aim to produce controlled-size starch nanoparticles (SNPs). Several formulations were tested for the preparation of the W/O microemulsions varying the organic/aqueous phase ratios and co-stabilizers concentrations. SNPs were characterized in terms of size, morphology, monodispersity and crystallinity. Spherical shape particles with mean sizes 30-40 nm were prepared. The method was then used to simultaneously synthesize SNPs and iron oxide nanoparticles with superparamagnetic properties. Starch-based nanocomposites with superparamagnetic properties and controlled size were obtained. Therefore, the microemulsion method developed could be considered an innovative technology for the design and development of novel functional nanomaterials. The starch-based nanocomposites were evaluated in terms of morphology and magnetic properties, and they are being considered as promising sustainable nanomaterials for different biomedical applications.