Introduction

Nanomaterials (NMs) are materials of dimension of length between 1 to 1000nm at least in

1 dimension but it is generally regarded between 1 to 100nm. According to Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) “NMs can exhibit unique properties dissimilar than the equivalent
chemical compound in a larger dimension”. NMs can be classified according to the size,
composition, shape and origin. Nanomaterials can be classified into four groups namely
Carbon based nanomaterials (e.g. fullerene ( C16),Carbon nanotube), Inorganic-based
nanomaterial includes metal and metal oxide nanoparticles, Composite based NMs (eg.
hybrid nanofibers ) and Organic based nanomaterials . This is the current classification.
(jeevananth)

In recent years NMs have gained wide recognition in technological advancement due to its
unique properties. NMs have unique magnetic, optical, electronic, and catalytic properties.(
thanh). The optical and electrical properties are inter-dependent to great extent. The
magnetic properties of nanomaterials are due to its uneven electronic distribution. Deep
understanding of mechanical properties such as elastic modulus, hardness, friction and
interfacial adhesion are required for good outcomes in NMs field. The thermal
conductivities of NMs are greater than those of that in solid form.( Nanoparticles:
Properties, applications and toxicities)

Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) are nanomaterials that can be used
with the help of an external magnet to direct to the required target area. Some of the
interesting properties of this includes superparamagnetism, high field irreversibility, high
saturation field. Due to this properties as soon as the external magnetic field is removed it
does not show its magnetic properties. The excellent biocompatibilities along with its special
magnetic properties are the primary factors that attract SPIONs in the field of pharmacy and
industries (Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs): Development, surface
modification and applications in chemotherapy).

Nanomaterials are important in the development of nanodevices which find numerous

applications in the field of physical, biological, biomedical and pharmaceutical applications.

Its ability for drug delivery in the optimum dose range is of great interest in the branch of
medicine. Mass productions of high and low level marketable products of nanomaterials are
used in aerospace , microelectronics and pharmaceutical industries. Latest types of inks
used in printed electronics are expected to contain metal NMs, carbon nanotubes and
ceramic nanomaterials. SPIONs have major application in the field of (Nanoparticles:
Properties, applications and toxicities). SPIONs are used as contrast enhancers in Magnetic
resonance imaging (MRI). They are used for applications such as magnetic labelling, cancer
treatment, targeted drug delivery. Despite of this uses there have been debates over the
toxicity of these nanoparticles. The injected particles should not bring in toxic responses,
immunological reactions that could affect the system.(Magnetic Force Microscopy
Characterization of Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles (SPIONs))