Investigating Ionic Current Rectification as a Means of Controllable Drug Delivery using Silica Nanoparticles and Nano Porous Membranes

Name

Katie L. Nolan, Georgia Southern UniversityFollow

Publication Date

4-26-2022

Major

Chemistry (B.S.)

Document Type and Release Option

Thesis (open access)

Faculty Mentor

Dr. Ji Wu

Abstract

This project investigates a novel ionic current rectification (ICR) phenomenon created by the opening and closing of nanopores by charged silica nanoparticles (SNPs) under electrophoretic flow. This voltage-controlled opening and closing of the pores can be exploited to allow delivery of nicotine through the pores at programmable intervals. The ICR phenomenon was thoroughly investigated by varying pH, buffer concentration, SNP concentration, and applied voltage range. The mechanism was also verified by testing with a 2-, 3-, and 5-electrode system. Potential cake layer formation was demonstrated in a longer ICR test, and the implications of this on the drug delivery mechanism were discussed.

Recommended Citation

Nolan, Katie L., "Investigating Ionic Current Rectification as a Means of Controllable Drug Delivery using Silica Nanoparticles and Nano Porous Membranes" (2022). Honors College Theses. 749.
https://digitalcommons.georgiasouthern.edu/honors-theses/749