Synthesis and Functionalization of Magnetic Particles

Magnetic nanoparticles are a complex mix including a magnetic inorganic core that is typically 30 nm or smaller and surrounding organic species bound to the surface, all of which is typically dispersed in a solvent. Creating this structure in a well-controlled and reproducible manner is a topic that has been studied in great detail for the past few decades. This chapter will introduce the various materials and techniques utilized in creating these structures. The enormity of this topic requires a selective approach, and many topics are discussed in summary form, though references are provided for further reading on these topics. Emphasis is placed on the most common and promising approaches to forming and functionalizing magnetic nanoparticles for application in biotechnology. This means that the bulk of text is dedicated to chemical synthesis of magnetic nanoparticles as well as the surface functionalization of those particles with organic small molecules or polymers with or without further reactive or recognition sites.