Synthesis and functionalization of NaGdF₄:Yb,Er@NaGdF₄ core-shell nanoparticles for possible application as multimodal contrast agents.

ABSTRACT: Upconverting nanoparticles (UCNPs) are promising, new imaging probes capable of serving as multimodal contrast agents. In this study, monodisperse and ultrasmall core and core-shell UCNPs were synthesized via a thermal decomposition method. Furthermore, it was shown that the epitaxial growth of a NaGdF₄ optical inert layer covering the NaGdF₄:Yb,Er core effectively minimizes surface quenching due to the spatial isolation of the core from the surroundings. The mean diameter of the synthesized core and core-shell nanoparticles was ≈8 and ≈16 nm, respectively. Hydrophobic UCNPs were converted into hydrophilic ones using a nonionic surfactant Tween 80. The successful coating of the UCNPs by Tween 80 has been confirmed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Sca

SUBMITTER: Baziulyte-Paulaviciene D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5588608 | biostudies-literature | 2017

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature