From Rust To High Tech: Semi-Synthesis Of A Ferrofluid Using FeO Nanoparticles

TCE

The Chemical Educator

ISSN: 1430-4171 (electronic version)

Table of Contents

Abstract Volume 10 Issue 3 (2005) pp 204-207

From Rust To High Tech: Semi-Synthesis Of A Ferrofluid Using FeO Nanoparticles

Lisa M. Stuber^†, Elizabeth M. Rachford^†, Christopher S. Jordan^†, Scott J. Mitchell^†, Crystal Tabron^‡, Thomas J. Manning^‡,*

Georgia Governor’s Honors Program, Chemistry section, Valdosta State University, Valdosta, Georgia, 31698 and^. Department of Chemistry, Valdosta State University, Valdosta, Georgia, 31698, tmanning@valdosta.edu
Received July 20, 2004. Accepted May 5, 2005.

Published online: 27 May 2005

Abstract. Metal oxide nanoparticles are an important material in nanotechnology. Ferrofluids, which are typically made from iron oxide (Fe₃O₄) nanoparticles, have found commercial applications and are widely used in academic research and educational activities. This study describes the novel semisynthesis of a ferrofluid using commercially available iron oxide nanoparticles (FeO) as the starting material. It forms the spiked solution indicative of a ferrofluid. Three educational goals were the driving force behind the development of this experiment: (a) students work with a cutting edge nanotechnology material that is safe, economical, and can be completed in a three-hour laboratory session; (b) the results of the experiments can be clearly observed without the need for expensive or research-grade equipment (i.e, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, scanning tunneling microscopy, etc.); and (c) it emphasizes some of the basic concepts taught in a general chemistry class, such as oxidation and reduction and stoichiometry.

Key Words: Laboratories and Demonstrations; general chemistry; nanoparticles

(*) Corresponding author. (E-mail: tmanning@valdosta.edu)

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Supporting Materials:

A current application for ferrofluids and a projected future application associated with some aspect of science and engineering given by a student hoping to obtain a degree in aerospace engineering is included in a Zip File as supporting material (10 KB).