Open AccessA new method for the aqueous functionalization of superparamagnetic Fe 2 O 3 nanoparticles
Author(s) -
Herranz Fernando,
Morales Mª. Puerto,
Roca Alejandro G.,
Vilar Ramón,
RuizCabello Jesús
Publication year - 2008
Publication title -
contrast media & molecular imaging
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.714
H-Index - 50
eISSN - 1555-4317
pISSN - 1555-4309
DOI - 10.1002/cmmi.254
Subject(s) - nanoparticle , surface modification , paramagnetism , aqueous solution , superparamagnetism , covalent bond , iron oxide nanoparticles , pulmonary surfactant , iron oxide , oxide , nanotechnology , magnetic nanoparticles , molecule , chemical engineering , chemistry , materials science , organic chemistry , magnetization , magnetic field , physics , quantum mechanics , engineering
A new methodology for the synthesis of hydrophilic iron oxide nanoparticles has been developed. This new method is based on the direct chemical modification of the nanoparticles' surfactant molecules. Using this methodology both USPIO (ultrasmall super paramagnetic iron oxide) (hydrodynamic size smaller than 50 nm) and SPIO (super paramagnetic iron oxide) (hydrodynamic size bigger than 50 nm) were obtained. In addition, we also show that it is possible to further functionalize the hydrophilic nanoparticles via covalent chemistry in water. The magnetic properties of these nanoparticles were also studied, showing their potential as MRI contrast agents. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.