A Single Magnetic Particle with Nearly Unlimited Encoding Options

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Physical Chemistry

Background:

• Communicating objects are crucial for product security, circular economy, and the Internet of Nano Things.
• Smart additives, particularly magnetic particles, offer potential for materials intelligence due to their size and security benefits.
• Current magnetic particle identification methods lack the resolution for widespread application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a magnetic particle-based system capable of generating a vast number of unique identification codes.
• To enable unambiguous, rapid, and easy readout of these magnetic codes.
• To advance materials intelligence through novel labeling and detection techniques.

Main Methods:

• A hierarchical supraparticle design inspired by musical overtones was employed.
• Magnetic interactions were minimized to allow for customizable magnetic signals.
• Magnetic particle spectroscopy was used for spectral decoding of the magnetic codes.

Main Results:

• A toolbox generating over 77 billion (77 × 10^9) distinct magnetic codes within a single particle was created.
• These codes are adjustable and can be read out unambiguously, easily, and quickly.
• The system allows for remote, contactless detection of codes within materials.

Conclusions:

• The developed magnetic particle system represents a breakthrough for labeling applications, offering unprecedented code variety.
• This technology paves the way for enhanced materials intelligence and secure product identification.
• The ability to embed and read unique magnetic signatures opens new avenues for tracking and authentication.