Multifunctional pure and Sr-doped magnetite superparamagnetic nanoparticles: Synthesis, characterization, magnetic heating performance, and numerical simulation

Magnetic hyperthermia based on the utilization of multifunctional superparamagnetic nanoparticles (SNPs) is a promising method for non-invasive localized cancer treatment. Understanding the influence of properties and morphology of magnetic core and surface coatings on heating performance is crucial for their utilization in clinical applications. Multifunctional Pure and Sr-doped Fe₃O₄ SNPs were synthesized and coated with oleic acid, silica coatings, and surface amination for modification of their surfaces. Materials characterizations were performed via FTIR, XRD, TEM/EDS microscopy, and VSM measurements. Experimental studies were conducted to assess the heating performance of these nanoparticles using nanoparticle/agarose gel composite samples. Temperature changes on their top surface over time, induced by an externally applied magnetic field, were monitored. The simulation studies in conjunction with the experimental results, were successfully employed to comparatively evaluate the effects of multiple process parameters and to gain insights into the effects of relevant multiple parameters; including the types, properties, concentrations, and distributions of SNPs; the physical properties of the organic matrix and the surrounding medium; the interface between SNPs and the matrix; as well as the geometry of the sample and the strength and geometry of the magnetic field on the heating performance of the nanoparticles.