Pickering emulsions stabilized by surface-modified Fe3O4 nanoparticles

► We modified Fe3O4 nanoparticles to increase their hydrophobicity. ► The stability of the resultant Pickering emulsions was investigated. ► Carboxylic acid-coated particles can only stabilize dodecane-water emulsions. ► Stability of emulsions decreases as alkyl group length and coating extent increase. ► Silane-coated particles can stabilize O/W emulsions with butyl butyrate or dodecane.