Synthesis of functional hollow WS₂ particles with large surface area for Near-Infrared (NIR) triggered drug delivery

For the first time, hollow structured WS₂ particles with large surface area are used for drug delivery application, because a large specific surface area is a strong demand for drug delivery carriers for the maximum drug loading. The synthesis was followed by surface modification and drug loading. The composite was finally sealed with the phase change material to prevent the drug leakage before the composite reaching the tumor sites. The polyethylene glycol (PEG) and doxorubicin (DOX) loading were confirmed by Fourier-Transform Infrared (FT-IR), UV-Vis spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis, and the specific surface area was determined with BET method. The DOX drug release was studied at various environment temperature under 808 nm laser irradiation. Finally, the biocompatibility and cytotoxicity of the drug delivery system were studied with liver tumor cells.