The Optimization of Mechanochemical Processes toward Functional Nanocomposite Materials

Abstract

Mechanochemical technology is developing rapidly, judging by the scientific information in both basic and applied studies. However, many issues and points of view remain to be discussed. This review presents some new key issues for the optimization of mechanochemical processes in terms of theoretical and practical aspects. Emphasis is placed on powder technology aspects, which are not always discussed compared to functional or microscopic viewpoints. The transfer of chemical species across the interparticle interface between dissimilar species during the mechanosynthesis of nanocomposites offers many new opportunities. Since almost all material transport is preceded by charge transfer, its driving force has been sought using terminology beyond the well-established electrochemical terms. In particular, the valence state of the cationic species involved is of importance. The role of organic compounds throughout the process is emphasized, regardless of their survival in the final product. The similarity with pharmaceutical phenomena is pointed out, although its mentality is very different from that of the synthesis of nanocomposites. The rational amorphization and stabilization of molecular dispersion states with the participation of excipients are discussed. The effects of liquids, either added or formed by mechanochemical auto-liquefaction, are presented with reference to the comparison between wet and dry grinding. The mechanisms of the apparent stabilization of the mechanically activated states of the products are elucidated to investigate the practical applicability of these mechanochemically synthesized products. Finally, the most important aspects for the optimization of the mechanochemical processes of functional nanocomposites are listed.

Equimolar As4S4/Fe3O4 Nanocomposites Fabricated by Dry and Wet Mechanochemistry: Some Insights on the Magnetic–Fluorescent Functionalization of an Old Drug

“…The main disadvantage, of bulky sulfide arsenicals (As 4 S 4 and As 2 S 3 ) possessing poor bioavailability because of low water solubility, has also been overcome due to recent progress in developed nanostructurization technologies [6]. Thus, it has been found that the transition from bulky to nanoscopic arsenicals (nanoarsenicals) could be completed by employing such nanostructurization routines as high-energy mechanical milling (MM) in dry and/or wet modes (known as nanomilling) [7][8][9], or wet solution processing chemistry [10][11][12][13]. The famous achievements on this path have been so impressive, even the emergence of a novel branch of anticancer therapy nominated as realgar nanotherapeutics has been declared recently [14].…”