Magnetic nanoparticles–polymer composites for multifeatured drug delivery

Abstract

The magnetic nanocomposite is considered to be a hybrid nanocomposite showing a potential application in multifaceted areas of healthcare and medicine such as targeted drug delivery, experimental diagnostics, the genesis of the better biocompatible compound, coating, and separation. Magnetic nanomaterials are incorporated in matrix-like hydrogels, polymers, carbon, ceramic metal frameworks, etc., which produce aggregated systems forming a magnetic nanocomposite. One such material is the ferrites, such as hematite and magnetite, which have shown beneficial holdings such as favorable chemical durability and evidenced low toxicity, and the ratio of surface to volume promises high functionality. Polymer-modified nanoparticles fabricated with magnetic particles also show a great response in targeting anticancer drugs such as doxorubicin, which improves the efficacy. Variegated external factors also influence the targeting of drugs to a specified site. This chapter includes the classification of magnetic nanocomposites such as polymer matrix nanocomposites, mesoporous magnetic nanocomposites, self-assembled colloidal nanocomposites, and multifunctional magnetic nanocomposites. It also summarizes synthesis techniques of magnetic polymer nanocomposites.