Self-assembly and magnetic properties of cobalt nanoparticles

Two- and three-dimensional superlattices of passivated cobalt nanoparticles were formed by a self-assembly technique. The size and stabilization of the cobalt nanoparticles are controlled by using the combination of oleic acid and triphenylphosphine. The cobalt nanoparticles are stable for at least 90 days without oxidation at room temperature under ambient conditions. The magnetic properties of the cobalt nanoparticles in different forms are compared, which provides helpful information on the magnetostatic interaction of the nanoparticles. (C) 2003 American Institute of Physics.