In this study we report formation of a micro-nano complex by using cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) and Closite-Na+ (CNa+) MMT clay by simple sonication process without any chemical modifications, primarily for drug delivery application. Three different weight ratios 1:1, 1:2 and 2:1 of CNCs to CNa+ clay have been taken for the complex formation. Polarized optical microscopy (POM), X-ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) techniques have been utilized for structural analysis of micro-nano complex. POM and FESEM studies have confirmed the formation of cubic shape micro-nano complex structure in-between CNCs and CNa+ clay for the weight ratio 2:1 of CNCs to CNa+ clay (Figure 1). Particle size analysis shows the distribution of particle diameter in the range of 70 nm – 120 nm. Interaction between CNCs and CNa+ clay due to sonication has been confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The thermal stability of the complex has been analyzed by thermal gravimetric analysis. Fluorouracil, which is an anti-cancer drug has been loaded on the CNC-CNa+ complex of weight ratio 2:1 and its release studies have been carried out in detail. Drug release experiments have been carried out in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) medium and simulated body fluids (SBF), which gave satisfactory results. Kinetic study of drug release has also been carried out to calculate the kinetic parameters of release. Thus the micro-nano complex formed by simple sonication technique in this study by using CNCs and CNa+ clay may be utilized in drug delivery area.

Cellulose nanocrystals and closite-Na+ clay micro-nano complex formation and its application in drug delivery studies

251st National Meeting (2016)

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