Mohamad Dakelbab

Bachelor student

Optimization of oxide nanotubes for structural and functional enhancement of hydrogels

 

Supervisors: Prof. Danijela Gregurec (Department of Chemistry and Pharmacy), Prof. Aldo R. Boccaccini

This bachelor thesis explores the optimization of inorganic nanotubes for applications in structural and functional enhancement of hydrogels. Through hydrothermal synthesis, nanotubes are obtained by manipulating the solvent composition (water, ethanol, or hexahydrate solutions). This allows for optimizing the size, structure, and consequently the functional properties of the nanotubes. The nanotube structure and properties are then examined using techniques like electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM). Finally, a polymer coating is explored to improve the stability of the nanotubes in liquid solutions and to provide further bonding options for their integration with hydrogels.