Abstract by Filippo Vitale

This study explored the development of eco-sustainable and biocompatible nanocomposites, focusing on selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) and hydroxyapatite nanowires (HAPNWs) designed for potential regenerative medicine and antimicrobial applications. By addressing the limitations of traditional synthesis methods, innovative and environmentally friendly strategies were implemented to achieve scalable and effective production of these materials. HAPNWs were synthesized using commercial compounds or eggshell waste as a natural calcium source within a three-component oleic acid-methanol-water emulsion system. Characterization techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirmed the production of highly crystalline, well-structured nanowires. These nanowires demonstrated features consistent with the literature, making them highly suitable for biomedical applications. To synthesize SeNPs, a novel confined environment was developed, using L-cysteine (Cys) as a reducing agent and sodium oleate (NaOl) as a surfactant. This innovative system facilitated controlled nucleation, isotropic growth, and stabilization of SeNPs over time. Phase diagram analysis based on small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) measurements and pH evaluation led to optimizing the system. SeNPs were further characterized using electron microscopies (SEM and TEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS). The UV-vis spectroscopy and SAXS assessed the stability and growing process kinetics, respectively. The synthesized SeNPs exhibited sharp size distribution and good stability. Integrating HAPNWs and SeNPs into a single nanocomposite resulted in a multifunctional material that combines the hydroxyapatite osteoconductive properties with the antimicrobial capabilities of selenium nanoparticles. The techniques employed in this research included advanced synthesis methods such as three-component emulsion and phase-controlled reduction, as well as extensive material characterization using XRD, ATR-FTIR, SEM, TEM, DLS, UV-vis spectroscopy, SAXS, and phase diagram analysis.

This study demonstrated the feasibility of using sustainable approaches to produce advanced biomaterials. By integrating functionality with sustainability, this work provides a foundation for developing next-generation nanomaterials in biomedical applications.