The biocompatibility and anti-biofouling properties of magnetic core–multishell Fe@C NWs–AAO nanocomposites

Soft-magnetic core–multishell Fe@C NWs–AAO nanocomposites were synthesized using anodization, electrodeposition and low-pressure chemical vapour deposition (CVD) at 900 °C. High chemical and mechanical stability is achieved by the conversion from amorphous to θ- and δ-Al2O3 phases above 600 °C. Moreover, the surface properties of the material evolve from bioactive, for porous AAO, to bioinert, for Fe@C NW filled AAO nanocomposite. Although the latter is not cytotoxic, cells do not adhere onto the surface of the magnetic nanocomposite, thus proving its anti-biofouling character.