Synthesis and properties of covalently linked photoluminescent magnetic magnetite nanoparticle-silicon nanocrystal hybrids

Silicon nanocrystals (SiNCs) are quantum dots that do not contain toxic metals and exhibit a photoluminescent response that may be tailored via changes in particle dimension as well as surface chemistry. Herein, we present a promising hybrid nanomaterial that combines the favourable properties (e.g., photoluminescence, biocompatibility, and surface chemistry) of SiNCs with the magnetic characteristics of Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles (NPs). Linking these two complementary nanomaterials via DCC coupling has yielded a new advanced hybrid material that possesses the characteristics of its constituents and affords a photoluminescent system that responds to permanent magnets.