Microwave-assisted synthesis and magnetic property of magnetite and hematite nanoparticles

Nanoparticles of magnetite (Fe3O4) and hematite (α-Fe2O3) have been prepared by a simple microwave heating method using FeCl3, polyethylene glycol and N2H4.H2O. The amount of N2H4.H2O has an effect on the final phase of Fe3O4. The morphology of α-Fe2O3 was affected by the heating method. Crystalline α-Fe2O3 agglomerates were formed immediately at room temperature and most of these nanoparticles within agglomerates show the same orientation along [110] direction. After microwave heating, ellipsoidal α-Fe2O3 nanoparticles were formed following an oriented attachment mechanism. Both Fe3O4 and α-Fe2O3 nanoparticles exhibit a small hysteresis loop at room temperature