Study on magnetite nanoparticles embedded in mesoporous silica obtained by a straightforward and biocompatible method

Abstract

Magnetic nanoparticles have been synthesized on mesoporous silica by a simple method without the need for either an alkali or an organic solvent, nor for rigorous pH control, making it a safe procedure for the nanomedicine field. The systems have been exhaustively characterized through different instrumental techniques, including the analysis of physicochemical properties by N2 adsorption, TEM, HAADF/STEM, SAED, EDS, XRD, XPS, and UV/Vis DRS. Magnetic properties have been tested by means of magnetization curves at room temperature and 5 K, ZFC-FC curves, and Mössbauer spectroscopy. The nanocomposite obtained by heating in N2 atmosphere showed good specific surface area and structural order, as well as high magnetization and negligible magnetic hysteresis and remanence, arising from the presence of finely dispersed magnetite nanospecies. These features are very relevant for future application as carriers for drug delivery systems, among other uses.