Hello,
I've been trying to synthesize core-shell Fe3O4@TiO2 nanoparticles with some success. Usually I mix Fe3O4 nanoparticles and TTIP in isopropanol and then dropwise add a 1:3 water+isopropanol solution under mechanical stirring. After a while, the black suspension turns grey and I maintain agitation for another 3 hours. Afterwards I wash with isopropanol and dry, then calcine.
Last batch, while I washed the resulting nanoparticles they ended up black, it looked like I returned to magnetite. This made me question the success of my previous batches.
Any tips on the synthesis?
Dear Dr jose
seems like you've been using a modified Stöber method to synthesize core-shell Fe3O4@TiO2 nanoparticles. The issue you encountered with the black coloration during washing could be due to incomplete or improper shell formation, which might result in the exposure of the core magnetite nanoparticles. Here are some suggestions to improve your synthesis process:
Remember, nanoparticle synthesis can be intricate, and optimization might require several trial-and-error experiments. It's also advisable to consult with experts in the field or collaborate with colleagues who have experience in nanoparticle synthesis.