Superparamagnetic Ag-Fe3O4 composites nanoparticles for magnetic fluid hyperthermia

Abstract

The increased use of superparamagnetic nanoparticles in medical applications motivates the development of new nanostructured materials and nanocomposites with tailored properties. In magnetic fluid hyperthermia, iron oxide nanoparticles destroy or weaken malignant tumor cells by increasing their temperature above a critical value. Therefore, magnetic nanoparticles with high heating efficiency are required. In this work, Ag-Fe3O4 composite nanoparticles and their corresponding ferrofluids are explored for hyperthermia applications. The iron oxide nanoparticles were first synthesized in an egg-white medium via coprecipitation and hydrothermal methods and then decorated with Ag, using honey as a reducing agent. The obtained nanoparticles were fully characterized and used to prepare water-based ferrofluids. The ferrofluid specific loss power was evaluated in an alternating magnetic field with frequency of 274 kHz and amplitude of 13.9 kA/m, confirming that Ag-Fe3O4 composite magnetic nanoparticles have a high potential for heat generation when compared with Fe3O4 nanoparticles. The observed physical properties and heating power values are discussed based on the synthesis route, particle size distribution, and physical properties.