Reversible thermoflocculation of magnetic core-shell particles induced by remote magnetic heating

We developed multifunctional magnetic polymer brushes with a tailorable thermoresponsive dispersion behavior that can be activated by AC magnetic fields. Via surface-initiated ATRP, magnetic core shell nanoparticles are obtained that are composed of nanosized superparamagnetic iron oxide cores and a copolymer shell. The shell consists of oligo(ethylene glycol) methylether methacrylate (OEGMA) and methoxyethyl methacrylate (MEMA) copolymers that show a lower critical solution temperature (LCST) in water. The hybrid structures are easily dispersible in water at room temperature, and show a reversible thermoflocculation at critical temperatures adjustable by the copolymer composition. The phase separation can alternatively be initiated and recorded by magnetic heating caused by magnetic losses in AC fields. This method offers a convenient way for the remote-controlled heating and agglomeration of disperse systems. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.