Hierarchical superparamagnetic magnetite nanowafers from a resin-bound [Fe(bpy)₃]²⁺ matrix

Abstract

The brilliant red [Fe(bpy)₃]²⁺ complex upon immobilization on a strongly acidic cation exchanger or in situ formation of the same cationic complex onto a resin matrix and subsequent modified hydrothermolysis (MHT) at ∼110 °C produces unusually stable hierarchical magnetite (Fe₃O₄) nanowafers. The slow hydrothermolysis, oxidation, and subsequent dehydration of the complex on the solid−liquid interface produce stable hierarchical nanostructures. The isolation of neat Fe₃O₄ (uncapped) particles from the resin matrix as hierarchical nanowafers was achieved by magnetically stirring a CH₃CN suspension of nanocomposites. The solid resin support not only aids nanowafer formation on its surface but also provides unique stability to the magnetite particles, where nanowafer oxidation is largely retarded. The utility of the as-prepared porous nanocomposite and characterization of the nanoparticles are promising for nanotechnological and soft ferromagnetic applications.