An Investigation of the Characterization and Drug Delivery Potential of Ibuprofen Using Modified High Surface Area Porous Materials

Abstract

This study investigates the synthesis, structural characterization, and drug delivery potential of mesoporous silica materials, including MCM-41, SBA-15, Core–Shell, KIT-6, and TUD-1, for ibuprofen encapsulation and controlled release. These materials were synthesized via sol–gel methods and systematically characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area analysis, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Among the tested materials, SBA-15 demonstrated the highest drug loading capacity of 170 mg/g and a sustained release profile, achieving 85% release over 24 h. Drug release kinetics were analyzed using mathematical models, including Korsmeyer-Peppas and Weibull, which indicated a predominantly diffusion-controlled release mechanism. A comparative analysis revealed that the materials' structural parameters, such as pore volume, surface area, and surface functionalization, critically influenced drug loading efficiency and release behaviour. SBA-15's hexagonal pore arrangement, large pore diameter, and enhanced surface chemistry positioned it as the most effective carrier for sustained ibuprofen delivery. These findings highlight the potential of mesoporous silica materials in designing advanced drug delivery systems, offering improved bioavailability, controlled release, and enhanced therapeutic performance.