“Structural and magnetic characterization of magnetite (Fe₃O₄) nanoparticle beads for bio-medical applications”

Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) are increasingly being employed in both nanomedicine and nanotechnology. These MNPs are typically composed of magnetic materials ranging in size from 5 to 100 nanometers, often including iron (Fe), cobalt (Co), nickel (Ni), and their respective oxides. Depending on their chemical composition and crystallographic structure, these materials can exhibit distinct magnetic phases, such as ferromagnetism, anti-ferromagnetism, or ferri-magnetism. Their unique size-dependent physical, chemical, and biological characteristics make them highly suitable for a wide range of nanotechnology applications, including medical diagnosis and treatment and magnetic recording. With suitable surface coating these MNPs can be controlled and directed by a magnetic field to a target area for medical diagnosis (particularly MRI) and cancer therapy. In many of medical nanotechnological applications, the SPM phase is desired so that, after releasing the magnetic field, the collection of MNPs does not retain a remanent magnetization.

This study presents a comprehensive analysis of the structural and magnetic properties of magnetite (Fe3O4) nanoparticle beads for potential biomedical applications. Characterization techniques including Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM) were employed to investigate the crystal structure, morphology, and effect of coating on the magnetic properties of the nanoparticles. The results revealed a well-defined crystalline structure, almost uniform size distribution, and strong superparamagnetic behavior, making them promising candidates for different biomedical applications such as drug delivery, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and hyperthermia therapy. This research provides valuable insights into the development and potential use of magnetite nanoparticle beads in the field of biomedicine.