Iron Oxide Nanopowder Water Dispersion (Fe₃O₄, 99.9%, 8 nm, 15 wt%) is a water-based suspension that contains high-purity magnetite nanoparticles (Fe₃O₄), with a particle size of 8 nm and a concentration of 15% by weight. Below is a detailed breakdown of this material:
1. Composition:
- Iron Oxide (Fe₃O₄):
- The material consists of Fe₃O₄, commonly known as magnetite, a mixed iron oxide that contains both Fe²⁺ and Fe³⁺ ions. It is a naturally occurring mineral and is a popular material in various technological applications due to its magnetic properties and chemical stability.
- Purity (99.9%):
- 99.9% purity means that the nanopowder is almost entirely composed of magnetite, with very few impurities. This high level of purity ensures excellent performance in sensitive applications.
- Particle Size (8 nm):
- The 8 nm particle size indicates that the nanoparticles are very small, providing a high surface area that enhances the material’s reactivity and efficiency in various applications. Smaller nanoparticles, like these, exhibit unique properties compared to larger particles, such as improved catalysis and high magnetic responsiveness.
- Concentration (15 wt%):
- The 15% by weight concentration indicates that 15% of the dispersion is made up of Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles, while the remaining portion is water. This concentration is appropriate for many applications that require high dispersibility but not a very high concentration of the nanoparticles.
2. Key Properties:
- High Surface Area:
- The 8 nm particle size provides a very high surface area relative to the volume of the material, which increases its reactivity. This feature is crucial for applications such as catalysis, adsorption, and sensor technology.
- Magnetic Properties:
- Fe₃O₄ (magnetite) has strong magnetic properties, which makes it suitable for use in magnetic separation, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and magnetic sensors. Its high magnetic susceptibility allows it to be manipulated by external magnetic fields, making it a key material in many advanced technologies.
- Chemical Stability:
- Fe₃O₄ is chemically stable and resistant to oxidation, which makes it useful in a variety of industrial and environmental applications. It can function in different pH environments and handle moderate temperatures without significant degradation.
- Water-Based Dispersion:
- This product is water-based, meaning it is safer to handle than solvent-based alternatives. It is also more environmentally friendly, and the water disperses the nanoparticles efficiently, making it easier to work with in industrial and laboratory settings.
3. Applications:
- Magnetic Separation:
- Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles are commonly used in magnetic separation processes. The strong magnetic properties of the material allow it to be easily separated from other substances using magnetic fields, which is useful in applications such as water purification or mining for rare earth elements.
- Catalysis:
- Due to their high surface area, Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles are also used in catalytic applications, particularly in reactions like oxidation or reduction processes. Their surface can serve as a support for catalysts or as a catalyst itself.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI):
- Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles are used as contrast agents in MRI. Their magnetic properties enhance the imaging process, making them valuable for medical diagnostics.
- Drug Delivery:
- Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles are being explored for use in targeted drug delivery systems. Their magnetic properties allow them to be guided to specific areas in the body, improving the efficiency of drug delivery.
- Environmental Remediation:
- Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles are used for environmental cleanup, such as the removal of heavy metals or organic pollutants from water. Their high surface area allows them to adsorb contaminants effectively.
- Sensors:
- The magnetic properties of Fe₃O₄ make it suitable for use in magnetic sensors and biosensors, where changes in magnetic properties are used to detect certain substances or changes in the environment.
- Energy Storage:
- Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles can be used in energy storage systems, particularly in supercapacitors and batteries, where they help to improve the performance of these devices by enhancing the energy storage capacity and efficiency.
4. Advantages:
- High Purity (99.9%):
- The 99.9% purity ensures minimal contamination, which is critical for applications requiring consistent and reliable performance, such as catalysis or biomedical uses.
- Magnetic Properties:
- The magnetic properties of Fe₃O₄ make it ideal for magnetic separation, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and other magnetic field-related applications.
- High Surface Area:
- The 8 nm particle size gives the material a high surface area, which increases its reactivity. This is beneficial for use in catalytic processes, environmental cleanup, and sensors.
- Water-Based Dispersion:
- Being water-based, the dispersion is easier to handle than solvent-based products and is safer for the environment. It can also be integrated into water-based processes more easily.
5. Handling and Storage:
- Handling:
- As with all nanopowders, proper care should be taken when handling the Fe₃O₄ nanopowder dispersion. Use personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, goggles, and respiratory protection, to avoid direct contact with the material.
- Storage:
- Store the dispersion in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Ensure that the container is sealed tightly to prevent evaporation of the water, which could alter the concentration.
- Safety:
- While Fe₃O₄ (magnetite) is generally non-toxic, care should be taken to avoid inhalation or skin contact with nanopowders. Work in a well-ventilated area and use appropriate PPE to prevent exposure to the nanoparticles.
Summary:
Iron Oxide Nanopowder Water Dispersion (Fe₃O₄, 99.9%, 8 nm, 15 wt%) is a high-purity, water-based dispersion of magnetite (Fe₃O₄) nanoparticles with a particle size of 8 nm and a concentration of 15% by weight. It has high surface area, strong magnetic properties, and chemical stability, making it suitable for a wide range of applications such as magnetic separation, catalysis, MRI contrast agents, drug delivery, environmental remediation, sensors, and energy storage. The water-based nature of the dispersion makes it easy to handle and environmentally friendly. Its high purity ensures consistent performance in sensitive applications, while its magnetic properties open up a broad array of industrial, biomedical, and environmental applications.