The Need

Magnetic nanoparticles are widely used in applications such as magnetic hyperthermia, catalysis, sensing, and data storage, yet their performance is often limited by poor control over key magnetic properties. Existing materials typically rely on size or shape control alone, which provides limited tunability and poor reproducibility. There is a significant unmet need for magnetic nanoparticle platforms that enable predictable, composition‑based tuning of magnetic anisotropy and saturation to optimize performance for specific operating conditions and applications.

The Technology

OSU engineers have developed a family of multi‑metallic ferrite nanoparticles whose magnetic properties are tuned through controlled elemental composition rather than particle size or morphology. Synthesis methods have also been developed. By adjusting the relative amounts of iron, manganese, and cobalt, the nanoparticles exhibit a wide, predictable range of magnetocrystalline anisotropy and magnetic saturation. The approach leverages computationally guided design combined with scalable synthesis to produce nanoparticles with tailored magnetic relaxation behavior optimized for targeted field strengths and frequencies.

Commercial Applications

• Medical hyperthermia treatment
• MRI contrast agents
• Chemical catalysis

Benefits/Advantages

• Magnetic properties can be predictably adjusted without changing particle size or shape.
• Materials can be tailored to specific magnetic field strengths and frequencies.
• Covers a wide range of anisotropy and saturation values from a single material platform.
• Uses solution‑based methods compatible with industrial nanoparticle manufacturing.