In situ synthesis of cobalt ferrite nanoparticle/polymer hybrid from a mixed Fe–Co methacrylate for magnetic hyperthermia

Abstract Hyperthermic CoFe 2 O 4 nanoparticle (CFO NP)/polymer hybrids were synthesized by hydrolysis–condensation from a complex of Co and Fe possessing methacrylate ligands. Single-crystal analysis revealed that the complex consisted of two Co and four Fe metal atoms coordinated by methacrylate and 2-methoxyethoxy groups. The complex was copolymerized with 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) and the resulting copolymer was then hydrolyzed to form a CFO NP/copolymer of poly(methacrylate) and poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) hybrid. Copolymerization with HEMA enhanced the stability of the hybrid in water. The size and magnetic properties of CFO in the hybrid were controlled by adjusting the hydrolysis conditions. Moreover, the hybrid generated heat under an alternating current magnetic field; its exothermal properties depended on the magnetic properties of the hybrid, the strength of the applied field, and the CFO NP content in the agar phantom matrix.