Nano-Calcium Carbonate with Core–Shell Structure was Prepared by Dopamine Chelation Using Pluronic F-127 as Template

Abstract

Herein, a new template carbonization method is used to prepare calcite-type nano-calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) with a core–shell structure using calcium hydroxide as a solute and Pluronic F-127 as a templating and pore-forming agent. Dopamine hydrochloride is added to control the size of calcium hydroxide particles. The morphology, particle size, and crystal type of CaCO₃ are characterized via transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, nanoparticle size, and zeta potentiometer. The creation of core–shell calcium carbonate nanoparticles is examined in relation to reaction circumstances (i.e., additive sequence, additive amount, and additive mixing time), carbonization temperature, liquid flow rate, and templates with varying chain lengths. Furthermore, a discussion is held regarding the formation mechanism of spherical core–shell calcium carbonate that is created using the innovative template carbonization method. The results show that the order, amount, liquid flow rate, and template type of additives have a significant effect on the crystal shape of calcium carbonate nanoparticles. The mixing time of additives has a significant effect on the particle size of calcium carbonate nanoparticles. Interestingly, the thickness of the shell depends on the carbonization temperature, and too slow or too fast flow rate will lead to the formation of cyclic calcium carbonate nanoparticles.