On the Preparation of γ‐Fe₂O₃ Nanoparticles Via a Low‐Temperature Nonaqueous Precipitation Route

Abstract

Maghemite (γ‐Fe₂O₃) is a technologically important compound as it is the most extensively used material for magnetic disks and tapes. Recently downsizing of electronic components and the need to store information in smaller magnetic volumes has created a demand for developing storage media with ultra fine magnetic materials. γ‐Fe₂O₃ also possesses high potential for use in magneto optical memory devices, ferrofluid and biomedical devices. Therefore, preparation of γ‐Fe₂O₃ nanoparticles is gaining considerable interest among the scientists and researchers. Despite a number of processing techniques being developed for preparing γ‐Fe₂O₃ particles in their nanometric form, most processes require high energy and sophisticated instrumentation. In view of these limitations, herein we report on the development of a simple and reliable route for preparing γ‐Fe₂O₃ nanoparticles from an organic precursor.

Keywords:

• nanoparticles
• γ‐Fe₂O₃
• kinetic
• heat‐treatment
• nucleation
• growth

Acknowledgments

All India Council of Technical Education New Delhi has provided the financial support for the work under the Project Grant 8022/RID/NPROJ/RPS‐67‐4 dated 22.03.2004.