Novel magnetic Fe onion-like fullerene micrometer-sized particles of narrow size distribution

Magnetic polydivinylbenzene (PDVB)/magnetite micrometer-sized particles of narrow size distribution were prepared by entrapping Fe(CO)(5) within the pores of uniform porous PDVB particles, followed by the thermal decomposition of the encapsulated Fe(CO)(5) at 300 degrees C in a sealed cell under inert atmosphere. Magnetic Fe onion-like fullerene micrometer-sized particles of narrow size distribution have been prepared by the thermal decomposition of the PDVB/magnetite magnetic microspheres at 1100 degrees C under inert atmosphere. The graphitic coating protects the elemental iron particles from oxidation and thereby preserves their very high magnetic moment for at least a year. Characterization of these unique magnetic carbon graphitic particles was also performed. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.