Synthesis of starch nanoparticles with controlled morphology and various adsorption rate for urea.

• Faster production of starch nanoparticles using DMSO nano-precipitation method. • Water content in DMSO can influence the recrystallized of starch nanoparticles. • Controlled surface morphology is achieved for type A, B and C starch nanoparticle. • Trichosanthes kirilowii pulp SNPs (type C) in film morphology demonstrated an significantly enhanced urea adsorption rate. Starch nanoparticles (SNPs) with different morphology and particle size can be prepared by modulating the reaction conditions over SNPs preparation. This study was to synthesize various SNPs by using ultrasound assisted nanoprecipitation method, and characterized by particle size analysis, SEM and XRD performing. SNPs were successfully produced via nanoprecipitation and the particle size were controlled in the range of 95 to 150 nm. Moreover, variously different morphologies were obtained when using corn, potato or Trichosanthes kirilowii pulp (TKP) starch to produce nanoparticles, including fiber, flake and film. Results shown film TKP SNPs demonstrated an improved urea adsorption rate to 135.60 mg/g with the highest q m at 1.00 mg/mL. SNPs can be developed using ultrasound assisted nanoprecipitation method and the particle size together with surface morphology can be varied according to the source of starch and preparation method, while surface morphology is the key factor in altering adsorption performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]