In conclusion, Fe3O4 nanoparticles of various mean
sizes were successfully synthesized by the thermal
decomposition method. Our synthesis approach
employed an environmental friendly solvent, PEO, as
an alternative to organic solvent. PEO serves both as
a solvent and a surfactant which prevents the
agglomeration of Fe3O4 nanoparticles formed during
synthesis. The size and shape of the Fe
3O4 nanoparticles could be controlled by judicious choice
of synthesis parameters such as precursor
concentrations, reaction durations and surfactants.