Exchange-coupled nanocomposites: chemical synthesis, characterization and applications

Nanocomposites containing soft and hard magnetic phases have attracted immense attention for energy-related and biomedical applications. With exchange coupling between nanoscale grains in the composites, magnetization of the soft magnetic phase can rotate coherently with that of the hard magnetic phase. In particular, good control of the soft and hard phases at the nanoscale in the composites is of great importance for effective exchange coupling, allowing us to make the best of the strengths of soft and hard magnetic phases and to optimize the magnetic properties for targeted applications. In this review, we present the recent progress in the chemical synthesis and applications of exchange-coupled nanocomposites. Firstly, the principle of nanomagnetism and exchange coupling is introduced. Secondly, the characterization of exchange-coupled nanocomposites is summarized. Thirdly, the chemical methods for the production of different exchange-coupled nanocomposites are presented. Finally, applications of exchange-coupled nanocomposites in magnetic energy storage and biomedicine are addressed.