Optimizing colloidal dispersity of magnetic nanoparticles based on magnetic separation with magnetic nanowires array.

Based on sharp geometry of Ni nanowires, we developed a novel high-gradient magnetic separator that was composed of a nanowires array and a uniform magnetic field. When suspension of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) flowed through it, the relatively large nanoparticles or clusters were removed from the suspension so that the size distribution can be improved. The separation resulted from magnetic force so that extra molecules or solvents were unnecessary to add. The performance was proved by scanned electron microscopy characterization and dynamic light scattering measurement. The improvement in magnetic colloidal dispersivity is important for the biomedical application of MNPs. Our results may also play a role in microfluidic application and nanoparticle-based detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]