Surface-optimized core–shell nanocomposites (Fe3O4@MnxFeyO4) for ultra-high uranium sorption and low-field separation in water

Multifunctional manganese ferrite-coated superparamagnetic magnetite (core–shell) nanocrystals, surface stabilized by a (organic) phosphate functionalized bilayer, have been simultaneously optimized for ultra-high uranium sorption capacity, colloidal stability under elevated ionic strengths, and susceptibility to low magnetic fields, which are critical for subsequent separation processes.