The quality of surface coating of magnetic nanoparticles destined as nanoprobes in clinical applications is of utmost significance for their colloidal stability and biocompatibility. A novel approach for the fabrication of such a coating involves the synthesis of well-defined diblock copolymers based on 2-(acetoacetoxy)ethyl methacrylate (chelating) and poly(ethylene glycol)methyl ether methacrylate (water-soluble, thermoresponsive), prepared by reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer polymerization. Fabrication of magneto-responsive micelles was accomplished via chemical coprecipitation of Fe(III)/Fe(II) in the presence of diblock copolymers. Further to the characterization of micellar morphologies, optical and thermal properties, assessment of magnetic characteristics disclosed superparamagnetic behavior. The hybrid micelles did not compromise cell viability in cultures, while in vitro uptake by macrophage cells was significantly lower in comparison to that of the clinically applicable contrast agent Resovist, suggesting that these systems can evade rapid uptake by the reticuloendothelial system and be useful agents for in vivo applications.

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This work is the first investigation of joining NiTi and copper. The successful Nd:YAG laser welding of NiTi to copper achieved in this work enables new methods of connecting shape memory alloys to electro-mechanical systems. Joints made with an optimum peak power of 2.2 kW accommodated pseudoelastic deformation of NiTi, proving their use with high strength actuators. Fracture occurred through the cross section of these defect-free joints. A lower peak power of 1.8 kW created weak joints with limited weld penetration of the copper sheet. This lack of bonding resulted in fracture occurring across the small disconnected joint areas. Joints made with a higher peak power of 2.6 kW had significant cracking in the fusion zone. Two regions of distinct Cu composition were found in the fusion zone, and cracking occurred at the interface between these regions because of their different physical properties. Failure initiated at this cracking and propagated through the fusion zone that had been embrittled by mixing with over 20 at.% Cu.