Nanocomposite materials from functional polymers and magnetic colloids

The synthesis of polymer coated magnetic nanoparticles is reviewed. This class of organic/inorganic materials has gained significant attention for potential applications in biomedicine, separations, and magnetic storage. We outline the various approaches that have been investigated to encapsulate discrete magnetic colloids with functional polymer shells. An essential component of this research is the preparation of polymeric surfactants that enable synthesis, passivation, and functionalization of magnetic nanoparticles. Various polymerization techniques, namely, living and controlled polymerizations, such as, ring-opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP) and controlled radical processes have been applied to synthesize core-shell colloids possessing tunable film thickness, composition, and properties.