Abstract
Here we provide a complete review on the use of dynamic light scattering (DLS) to study the size distribution and colloidal stability of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs). The mathematical analysis involved in obtaining size information from the correlation function and the calculation of Z-average are introduced. Contributions from various variables, such as surface coating, size differences, and concentration of particles, are elaborated within the context of measurement data. Comparison with other sizing techniques, such as transmission electron microscopy and dark-field microscopy, revealed both the advantages and disadvantages of DLS in measuring the size of magnetic nanoparticles. The self-assembly process of MNP with anisotropic structure can also be monitored effectively by DLS.
Highlights
Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) with a diameter between 1 to 100 nm have found uses in many applications [1,2]
It is possible to synthesize a wide range of MNPs with well-defined structures and size which can be matched with the interest of targeted applications
For small-sized MNPs, the radius of curvature effect is the main contributing factor for the large difference observed on the averaged diameter from dynamic light scattering (DLS) and transmission electron miscroscopy (TEM)
Summary
Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) with a diameter between 1 to 100 nm have found uses in many applications [1,2]. The hydrodynamic diameters can be estimated via the StokesEinstein equation for the diffusion coefficients calculated for individual particles, averaging over multiple time steps [18] Successful implementation of this technique depends on the ability to trace the particle optically by coating the MNP with a noble metal that exhibits surface Plasmon resonance within a visible wavelength. For small-sized MNPs, the radius of curvature effect is the main contributing factor for the large difference observed on the averaged diameter from DLS and TEM This observation has at least suggested that for any inference of layer thickness from DLS measurement, the particles with a radius much larger than the layer thickness should be employed. This kinetic data time scale is involved in the full assembly of anisotropic nanomaterials from single building blocks to 2-D arrays and, eventually, 3-D micron-sized assemblies
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