Chain formation and aging process in biocompatible polydisperse ferrofluids: Experimental investigation and Monte Carlo simulations

► Critical review of the use of Monte Carlo methods in the description of magnetic nanoparticles. ► Theoretical agglomerate formation models are discussed and compared to simulations and experimental data. ► Use of EMR to extract the agglomerate's chain size. ► New procedure to model the ionic-surfacted layer relating the intensity of steric and ionic repulsions. ► Aging process explained through modifications of grafting (because of chain formation) or Hamaker constant (due to oxidation).