The Effects of Synthesis Conditions on the Functionalization of Magnetite Nanoparticles

Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONS) are at the forefront of many technologies in various fields such as biology and electronics. The applications of SPIONS in these fields, however, are limited by the understanding of bonding between ligands and magnetite nanoparticles’ surfaces, and the techniques available to control the chemical environment on the outer surfaces of the particles. This research is dedicated to the exploration of the synthesis and properties of magnetite nanoparticles functionalized with ligands processing both carboxylic and amine functional groups. Current results show a preferential bonding of amine groups onto the surfaces of the magnetite nanoparticles. Future work includes further investigation of the unexpected bonding between amine groups and the surfaces of magnetite nanoparticles.