Ordered mesoporous silica polymer nanocomposites for the adsorption of bovine serum albumin (BSA)

Silica polymer nanocomposites were synthesized via in situ free radical polymerization of vinyl monomers inside mesoporous silica frame work for their potential use in adsorption of bovine serum albumin (BSA). Powder X-ray diffraction studies and adsorption isotherm studies confirmed the mesoporous nature of the nanocomposites. Very high adsorption (6.5-14.2 mg/g) of BSA was observed for functionalized ordered silica nanocomposites (SBA/x). Various adsorption parameters such as adsorbent weight, adsorption time and pH etc. were optimized and possible synergism of hydrophilic/hydrophobic interactions was also discussed.