Tuning of magnetic dipolar interactions of maghemite nanoparticles embedded in polyelectrolyte layer-by-layer films

In this study we report an experimental approach capable of tuning dipolar interactions in hybrid magnetic nanofilms produced via layer-by-layer assembly of positively-charged maghemite nanoparticles and sodium sulfonated polystyrene onto glass and silicon substrates. Morphological and magnetic properties of the as prepared nanofilms were determined by Raman spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, conventional and SQUID magnetometry. Maghemite nanoparticles form densely packed layers with voids between particles being filled by polymeric material as observed in atomic force microscopy images. Magnetic hysteresis loops and zero-field-cooled/field-cooled magnetization curves reveal a superparamagnetic behavior at room temperature. The energy barrier for the magnetic moment reversal of the nanofilms has been determined from the frequency dependent ac susceptibility and is related to the gamma-Fe2O3 nanoparticles concentration used in the colloidal dispersion throughout film fabrication. Variations on the interparticle distances have a direct effect on the interparticle dipolar interactions. A less concentrated colloid gives rise to large separated nanoparticles inside the nanofilm with a consequent reduction on the energy barrier for the magnetic moment reversal. The fabrication process exploring the control of the nanoparticle concentration can thus be used to tune the magnetic dipolar interactions in the nanofilms.