Heat generation in tiny magnets
Nanomaterials have established their presence and value in numerous domains among which is magnetisation. With the increasing miniaturisation of magnetic structures, their thermal activation and thermodynamic behaviours are of increasing relevance. Temperature-induced instability or magnetisation switching can be undesirable for data storage devices. However, the use of an applied magnetic field to remotely induce local heating in cancerous tissue has proven to be quite beneficial. EU-funded scientists explored the poorly characterised thermodynamic properties of magnetic nanoparticles (MNP) through multi-scale, atomistic and large-scale Monte Carlo methods within the context of the project 'Magnetic energy conversion in fine nanoparticle systems' (MENCOFINAS). Novel multi-scale modelling helped elucidate ultrafast magnetisation in complex materials, work that is currently in review for publication in the prestigious journal Scientific Reports (Nature). Large-scale Monte Carlo methods allowed scientists to identify magnetisation relaxation time scales and a difference between shortest and longest on the scale of decades. This provided important insight into heat generation methods. These results were presented at a number of international conferences and are currently being considered for publication in Physical Review Letters. Scientists also worked on fundamental thermodynamics of MNP systems in collaboration with a globally leading hard disk drive manufacturer. Outcomes resulted in preparation of several papers, one of which has already been published. Project results placed the EU at the forefront of MNP-based hyperthermia treatment for cancer and also pointed the way to several spin-offs or commercial joint ventures. Needless to say, the international standing of the associated researchers was greatly enhanced through their hard work and fruitful collaboration within the scope of MENCOFINAS.
Keywords
Cancer, thermodynamics, nanomaterials, magnetisation, heating, magnetic nanoparticles, multi-scale, atomistic, Monte Carlo, modelling, hyperthermia
