3.4. SLNs Characterization

The average size (Z-Ave) and polydispersity index (PDI) were determined by Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS). A Zeta Sizer Nano-ZS90 (Malvern Instrument Ltd., Worcs, England), equipped with a solid-state laser having a nominal power of 4.5 mW with a maximum output of 5 mW 670 nm, was employed. Analyses were performed using a 90° scattering angle at 20 ± 0.2 °C. Samples were prepared diluting 100 μL of SLN suspension with 900 μL of distilled water. Each value was measured at least in triplicate.

The zeta potential (ZP, ξ) was measured by Electrophoretic Light Scattering (ELS) using the Zeta Sizer Nano-ZS90 (Malvern Instrument Ltd., Worcs, England). The instrument carried out three sets of measures up to 100 to achieve an average value. Samples were suspended in distilled water, and the measurements were recorded at 25 °C. Each value was measured at least in triplicate.

Morphological and structural characteristics of CUR-pSLNs were investigated using TEM (JEOL JEM-101).