Standard Operating Procedure for Preparation of Metal Nanoparticles

1) Purpose

This SOP describes the process for preparing metal nanoparticles, such as gold, silver, and iron oxide nanoparticles, for various applications, including drug delivery, catalysis, and biomedical imaging.

2) Scope

This SOP applies to all laboratory personnel involved in the synthesis and preparation of metal nanoparticles.

3) Responsibilities

• Operators: Responsible for following the SOP to prepare metal nanoparticles accurately and safely.
• QA: Ensures compliance with the preparation protocols and verifies the quality of the metal nanoparticles.

4) Procedure

4.1 Preparation of Metal Salt Solution

4.1.1 Selection of Metal Salt

• 4.1.1.1 Select a metal salt (e.g., gold chloride, silver nitrate) based on the desired metal nanoparticle.
• 4.1.1.2 Dissolve the metal salt in distilled water or another suitable solvent under gentle stirring.

4.2 Reduction Process

4.2.1 Reduction Using Chemical Reducing Agents

• 4.2.1.1 Add a reducing agent (e.g., sodium citrate, sodium borohydride) to the metal salt solution under constant stirring.
• 4.2.1.2 Continue stirring the solution until the reaction is complete and nanoparticles are formed, as indicated by a color change (e.g., gold nanoparticles produce a red/pink color).

4.2.2 Thermal or Photochemical Reduction

• 4.2.2.1 Alternatively, perform a thermal or photochemical reduction by exposing the metal salt solution to heat or UV light, leading to nanoparticle formation.

4.3 Stabilization of