In-situ synthesis, structural, magnetic and in vitro analysis of α-Fe2O3–SiO2 binary oxides for applications in hyperthermia

The present study aims at the development of α-Fe2O3–SiO2 (hematite–silica) binary oxides for hyperthermia applications. An in situ sol–gel process was attempted to synthesis five different α-Fe2O3–SiO2 composites in which the varied concentrations of SiO2 precursors were added to the constant Fe2O3 precursor. The characterization studies confirmed the formation of α-Fe2O3 phase at 1000 °C. Heat treatments at 1200 °C resulted in the formation of c-SiO2 along with the presence of α-Fe2O3 phase. The magnetic studies ensured the ferromagnetic behavior of the system, but with a decreasing trend with increasing SiO2 content. The heating ability of the system was also assessed under an AC magnetic field using an induction heating instrument. The results obtained from hemolytic activity and cytotoxity test warranted the system׳s compatibility in vitro conditions.