(10a) Amine Group (-Nh2) Functionalized Magnetic Nanoparticles by Pulsed Plasma Polymerization

Abstract In this work, a pulsed plasma polymerization process was employed to deposit amine (-NH2) groups onto surfaces of ã-Fe2O3 nanoparticles. Surface functionalization of the nanoparticles was achieved using RF plasma polymerization of allylamine monomer in a rotating tube reactor. The morphology, structure and composition of the coated ã-Fe2O3 nanoparticles were characterized using a variety of analytical techniques. High resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM) measurements showed an ultra thin film of allylamine (4 nm) was uniformly deposited on surfaces of ã-Fe2O3 nanoparticles by the pulsed plasma polymerization process. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X-ray photon electron spectroscopy (XPS) and Time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectroscopy (ToF-SIMS) measurements all confirmed the allylamine deposition and existence of free amine (-NH2) groups on ã-Fe2O3 nanoparticle surfaces. Free amine (-NH2) groups of polyallylamine can provide sites for immobilization of biologic molecules such as protein, suggesting that the allylamine coated magnetic ã-Fe2O3 nanoparticles can be utilized for bioseparation or to deliver drugs to targeted tissues and organs using magnetic focusing techniques.