The Preparation of Nanocomposite with a Core-Shell Structure Made of Carbon Matrices and Lanthanum Nanoparticles

A method for synthesis of nanocomposite with core-shell structure made of carbon matrices and La nanoparticles for its subsequent approbation as contrast agent in radiological studies has been proposed. The synthesis includes three stages, consisting of (1) preparation of few-layer graphite fragments (graphite nanoflakes, GNF) as carbon matrix support, (2) preparation of La-containing composite by impregnation of GNF nanoparticles with lanthanum nitrate solution with subsequent annealing and (3) surface graphitization of obtained product. All samples were studied by transmission electron microscopy, Raman and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. It was shown that the graphite shells contained from 2 to 3 carbon layers, and the La-containing phase was lanthanum carbonate.