In this work composite structures based on a porous silicon were obtained and studied. Porous matrices were formed by electrochemical etching in aqueous solutions of hydrofluoric acid. Based on the obtained substrates, por-silicon (Si)/silver (Ag) and por-Si/zinc oxide (ZnO) composite structures were formed. These composites were functionalized by various methods (electro (E)-, thermo (T)-, electrothermal exposure) as a result of which the structures were modified. When studying the samples by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), it was concluded that silver nanoparticles actively diffused into the pores under these technological modes of functionalization. The por-Si/Ag and por-Si/ZnO composite structures were also studied using the following methods: infrared (IR) spectroscopy and Raman ultrasoft X-ray emission spectroscopy. Also, the photoluminescent characteristics of the samples were studied. Based on the obtained results, it was concluded that functionalization methods actively change the phase composition of structures and the optical properties of composites.
Part of the book: Composite Materials
Fluorescence imaging is a promising method widely used for the evaluation of the biodistribution and accumulation of various fluorescent agents cross-linked to the drug for effective therapy control. This work presents the methods for the functionalization of nanomaterials to provide them with fluorescent properties. The first of these methods is a unique technology for producing porous silicon with fluorescent properties. The second approach demonstrates linking of the fluorophores to inorganic nanoparticles (NP) using a spacer molecule ending with a functional group. For all these examples of fluorophores, biodistribution studies were performed with the fluorescent imaging system IVIS Lumina LT III (PerkinElmer, USA). It was noted that the size of particles and the method of their injection affect the distribution and accumulation in organs. The resulting materials can be used to develop platforms for theranostics.
Part of the book: Fluorescence Methods for Investigation of Living Cells and Microorganisms