Bimetallic nanoparticles of the platinum metals (Ru, Rh, Pd, Os, Ir, Pt) and of silver: Synthesis, microstructure, and biological action

• Applicants: Professor Dr. Matthias Epple; Dr. Marc Heggen; Dr. Christina Sengstock
• Subject Area: Biomaterials ; Synthesis and Properties of Functional Materials
• Term: from 2016 to 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 286659497

Bimetallic nanoparticles on the basis of silver and platinum metals shall be wet-chemically prepared and subsequently analysed with respect to their microstructure. Besides colloid-chemical methods and elemental analysis, especially high-resolution transmission electron microscopy shall be applied. The distribution of the elements in the nanoparticles will be spatially and quantitatively determined. By variation of the synthesis parameters, the internal structure and the size of the nanoparticles will be adjusted. Based on the principle of a sacrificial anode, the release of silver ions shall be enhanced in comparison to pure silver nanoparticles. This will be quantitatively measured with selected nanoparticle compositions. The influence of the composition of the particles, their microstructure and their size on bacteria and cells will be studied. The goal is to achieve a maximal and selective antibacterial effect together with low cytotoxicity and small total amount of silver. The emphasis will be laid on the mechanistic understanding of the antibacterial and cytotoxic action.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• Co-Investigator: Professor Dr. Manfred Köller