Synthesis and characterization of carbon-coated iron core/shell nanostructures

Special carbon-coated iron core/shell nanoparticles have been synthesized via a simple chemical vapor deposition (CVD) process. The experimental results show the iron nanoparticles are really encapsulated within an inhomogeneous carbon layer. The formation of amorphous carbon layer as well as the magnetic Fe nanoparticles makes this core/shell structure exhibit good drug adsorption and release capability, suggesting potential applications in targeted drug delivery systems.