Magnetic nanoparticles are an important class of materials with a wide variety of applications such as catalytic supports, storage media, agents for targeted drug delivery, MRI contrast, and magnetic hyperthermia.  In this study, we synthesized magnetic iron oxide-embedded mesoporous silica nanoparticles (IO-MSN) functionalized with catalytic organic groups.  Using the aldol condensation as a model reaction, we studied the catalytic activities of the materials under an alternating magnetic field (AMF). We compared these activities to those obtained by conventional heating in an oil bath.  When the two heating methods were adjusted to result in comparable bulk solution temperature, faster kinetics were observed using AMF heating, indicating a local heating effect.  The AMF frequency used in the study is not absorbed by the reagents or solvent in the reaction; the enhanced reactivity comes from the iron oxide source.  Factors affecting the local heating will also be discussed.

Effect of local heating on catalysis by functionalized magnetic nanoparticles under alternating magnetic field

243rd National Meeting (2012)

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.