Synthesis and characterization of Mg1+xFe2−2xTixO4 nanoparticles with an adjustable Curie point

Mg1+xFe2−2xTixO4 ferrite nanoparticles for Self-Regulating Magnetic-Fluid Hyperthermia were synthesized by the co-precipitation of Fe3+, Mg2+ and Ti4+ ions using NaOH. The hydroxide precursors were heated to 1000 °C in air and the product, (Mg,Ti)-ferrite, was milled in the presence of a surfactant in a high-energy mill, resulting in the magnetic fluid. The magnetic particles were characterized with transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffractiometry and magnetic measurements. The Mg1+xFe2−2xTixO4 nanoparticles with x=0.37 exhibited a room-temperature magnetization of 8 emu/g at 1 T and a Curie temperature (Tc) of 46 °C. The heating ability of the nanoparticles in an AC magnetic field was measured using a calorimeter. - Highlights: • (Mg,Ti) ferrite nanoparticles were prepared using coprecipitation and calcination. • The nanoparticles comprise the biocompatible elements. • A good alternative to the iron-oxide nanoparticles in biomedical applications. • Curie temperature of the nanoparticles can be tuned with the composition. • The nanoparticles can be applied for the self-regulating magnetic hyperthermia