Synthesis and characterization of elemental iron and iron oxide nano/microcomposite particles by thermal decomposition of ferrocene

Abstract The unique chemical and physical properties of the nano and microscale materials have led to important roles in the several scientific and technological fields. The magnetic nano/microparticles are of great interest because of its potential applications in, e.g., hyperthermia, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), catalytic applications, etc. The decomposition of iron pentacarbonyl is one of the most common methods for the preparation of magnetic iron oxide and iron nanoparticles. However, Fe(CO)₅ is severely toxic and alternative precursors should be used. Here, we describe the recent advances in the synthesis and characterization of the elemental iron and iron oxide nano/microcomposite particles by the thermal decomposition of ferrocene. The described synthesis process is based on simple nontoxic approaches including, for example, a solventless process. The particle size and size distribution as well as their composition, crystallinity, shape, and magnetic properties can be controlled via the synthesis conditions.