Applications of Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles in Oil & Gas and Biomedical Engineering

Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) have gained significant attention due to their unique properties, including high surface area, tunable pore size, and excellent thermal and chemical stability. These properties arise from well-established synthesis routes, precise structural control, and versatile surface functionalization strategies, which make MSNs highly suitable for applications in oil and gas engineering as well as biomedical engineering/biomedicine. In the oil and gas sector, MSNs have been utilized for enhanced oil recovery, gas separation, and corrosion inhibition, offering improved efficiency and environmental benefits. In biomedical engineering, MSNs are extensively researched for drug delivery, bioimaging, and tissue engineering, providing controlled and targeted therapeutic applications. Their ability to be functionalized with a variety of chemical groups for direct use in polymer nanocomposites enhances their versatility across industries. However, challenges remain in large-scale production, safety assessments, and regulatory compliance, necessitating further research and development. This paper explores the diverse applications of MSNs polymer nanocomposite in the aforementioned fields, supported by well-researched examples, and discusses future directions to maximize their potential impact. Focus is given on the MSNs structure, synthesis techniques and their postproduction surface functionalization that render them appropriate for use in the discussed applications.