The following laboratory procedure provides students
with hands-on
experience in nanomaterial chemistry and characterization. This three-day
protocol is easy to follow for undergraduates with basic chemistry
or materials science backgrounds and is suitable for inclusion in
upper-division courses in inorganic chemistry or materials science.
Students use air-free chemistry procedures to synthesize and separate
iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles and subsequently modify the nanoparticle
surface by using a chemical stripping agent. The morphology and chemical
composition of the nanoparticles are characterized using electron
microscopy and dynamic light scattering measurements. Additionally,
magnetic characterization of the particles is performed using an inexpensive
open-source (3D-printed) magnetophotometer. Possible modifications
to the synthesis procedure, including the incorporation of dopants
to modify the magnetic response and alternative characterization techniques,
are discussed. The three-day synthesis, purification, and characterization
laboratory will prepare students with crucial skills for advanced
technology industries such as semiconductor manufacturing, nanomedicine,
and green chemistry.