Magnetic and hydrogel composite materials for hyperthermia applications

Abstract

Micron-sized magnetic particles (Fe₃O₄) were dispersed in a polyvinyl alcohol hydrogel to study their potential for hyperthermia applications. Heating characteristics of this ferrogel in an alternating magnetic field (375 kHz) were investigated. The results indicate that the amount of heat generated depends on the Fe₃O₄ content and magnetic field amplitude. A stable maximum temperature ranging from 43 to 47 °C was successfully achieved within 5–6 min. The maximum temperature was a function of Fe₃O₄ concentration. A specific absorption rate of up to 8.7 W/g Fe₃O₄ was achieved; this value was found to depend on the magnetic field strength. Hysteresis loss is the main contribution to the heating effect experienced by the sample.