Nanocomposites containing nanoclusters of Fe₂P or γ-Fe₂O₃

Covalent incorporation of an organoiron complex into a silica xerogel matrix affords a single-source precursor for two different nanocomposite materials. Thermal treatment of this molecularly doped xerogel under hydrogen produces a nanocomposite containing nanocrystals of Fe₂P (barringerite). Thermal treatment of this doped xerogel under oxidizing conditions gives a nanocomposite containing nanocluster of γ-Fe₂O₃ (maghemite-Q). The latter result is unique in that thermal treatment of silica xerogels doped with ferric ions under similar thermal conditions affords an undesired iron silicate, Fe₂SiO₄ (fayalite), as the principle product. Preliminary magnetization measurements indicate that both nanocomposites exhibit interesting magnetic properties.