SiO2na

SiO2na is a term used to describe nanoscale silicon dioxide particles, typically ranging from about 1 to 100 nanometers in diameter. These particles are usually amorphous and present surface silanol (Si–OH) groups that can be chemically modified to tailor solubility, dispersibility, and reactivity. The abbreviation is not an official chemical name; it is used in some scientific literature and commercial contexts to classify silica-based nanomaterials and their derivatives. SiO2na encompasses a variety of forms, including nonporous silica nanoparticles and mesoporous silica nanoparticles, the latter offering defined pore structures and high surface areas for cargo loading and release.

Synthesis methods commonly yield well-defined size distributions. The Stöber sol-gel process produces spherical, monodisperse particles, while microemulsion and reverse microemulsion routes enable control over particle size and surface characteristics. Mesoporous variants are fabricated using structure-directing agents to create uniform pore networks. Surface functionalization with organosilanes such as aminopropyltriethoxysilane or polyethylene glycol–silane enables conjugation of drugs, dyes, or targeting ligands.

Applications span medicine, catalysis, sensing, and coatings. In biomedicine, SiO2na serve as drug delivery carriers or imaging probes after appropriate surface modification and biocompatibility testing. In catalysis, they act as supports for metal nanoparticles. In materials science, they provide inert, stable coatings and reinforcing fillers.

Safety considerations center on exposure and biocompatibility. Inhalation of silica nanoparticles can pose health risks, and in vivo applications require thorough toxicological assessment. Regulatory guidance varies by jurisdiction and application.