(418c) Size Controlled Synthesis of FeXPt100-X Nanoparticles for Self-Regulated Magnetic Fluid Hyperthermia

Magnetic Fluid Hyperthermia (MFH) is a potential therapy for cancer treatment that uses magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) to selectively heat the cancerous tissue to therapeutic temperatures (typically ~45°C). This is accomplished by localizing the MNPs in the cancerous tissue followed by the application of an alternating magnetic field. The temperature rise in the tissue during MFH depends on several factors including the material of the particles, dosage of the particles and, the amplitude and frequency of the magnetic field. Therefore careful monitoring and control of the temperature by modulating the magnetic field is essential for an effective treatment.

Such careful control of temperature can be avoided in a specialized form of MFH called self-regulated MFH, where MNPs that have a Curie temperature (T_c) equal to the therapeutic temperature are employed. When heated by the application of an alternating magnetic field, these MNPs heat up to their T_c. Beyond their T_c, they loose magnetism and can no longer heat even in the presence of the magnetic field, thus self-regulating the temperature. Bulk Fe₇₂Pt₂₈ in the disordered state has a T_c of ~45°C.

In the present work, we report on the synthesis of 4nm and 6nm Fe_xPt_100-x nanoparticles for self-regulated MFH. The compositions of the particles were tuned to be around Fe₇₂Pt₂₈. Magnetic measurements of these nanoparticles were performed to determine their suitability for self-regulated MFH.