One-pot synthesis of uniform and spherically assembled functionalized MFe2O4 (MÂ =Â Co, Mn, Ni) nanoparticles

► Synthesis of -NH2-functionalized mesoporous MFe2O4 particles has been achieved in one step. ► The size of particles can be controlled by changing the concentration of ethanol ► More importantly the specific surface area of the particles synthesized by this method is significantly higher than any previously reported method. ► The remarkable dispersion stability of the particles imparted by surface ethanolamine moiety is found to be advantageous for biological applications. ► The process is cost-effective and simple therefore can be adopted for large scale implementation.