Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles synthesis from tailings by ultrasonic chemical co-precipitation

The aim of this study is to develop a new method for the preparation of high-value, environmentally friendly products from tailings. Magnetic Fe3O4 nano-powder was synthesized by ultrasonic-assisted chemical co-precipitation utilizing high purity iron separated from iron ore tailings by acidic leaching method. Magnetite particles with 15 nm average diameter were characterized by X-ray diffraction, field-emission scanning electron microscopy and vibrating sample magnetometer. Surfactant influence on particles shape and size was investigated. Fe3O4 nanoparticles coated with C12H25OSO3Na exhibit better dispersion and uniform size. The product consisted of ferrous ferrite (Fe3O4) nanosized cubic particles with a high level of crystallinity and exhibit super-paramagnetism based on magnetization curves lacking hysteresis. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.