Temperature Effects on the Structural, Morphological, and Magnetic Properties of Iron Oxide Nanoclusters Using Solvothermal Method

The creation of iron oxide nanostructures with complementary functions has emerged as a requirement for more efficient preclinical nanoparticle-mediated biological research. The physical and magnetic properties of nanoparticles for certain applications are determined by the particle morphology and size, which are crucial factors. We present a method for producing magnetite (Fe₃O₄) nanoclusters of uniform size by a simple and cost-effective solvothermal process, utilising oleic acid (OA) as the coordinating ligand. The nanocluster sizes are altered by manipulating the temperature during the solvothermal process. Three separate sets of Fe₃O₄ nanoclusters are synthesised and characterised. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectrum exhibits a singular phase characterised by a cubic spinel structure. The particle sizes in the nano range were verified by FESEM, and the interplanar spacing measured by TEM is consistent with that determined by XRD. The confirmation of nanocluster formation was achieved through the utilisation of FESEM and AFM images. The rising temperature correlates with the creation of nanoclusters. The rise in reaction temperature resulted in an augmentation of the size of the crystallite, the shape of nanocrystals, and a rise in the value of saturation magnetization. A high M_s from the magnetic property study confirmed that all the synthesised materials are superparamagnetic. The favourable magnetic characteristics and biocompatibility of the synthesised nanoclusters allow them suitable for biomedical applications.