Abstract/Summary

The field-dependent relaxation dynamics of suspended magnetic nanoparticles continues to present a fascinating topic of basic science that at the same time is highly relevant for several technological and biomedical applications. Renewed interest in the intriguing behavior of magnetic nanoparticles in response to external fields has at least in parts be driven by rapid advances in magnetic fluid hyperthermia research. Although a wealth of experimental, theoretical, and simulation studies have been performed in this field in recent years, several contradictory findings have so far prevented the emergence of a consistent picture. Here, we present a dynamic mean-field theory together with comprehensive computer simulations of a microscopic model system to systematically discuss the influence of several key parameters on the relaxation dynamics, such as steric and dipolar interactions, the external magnetic field strength and frequency, as well as the ratio of Brownian and Néel relaxation time. We also discuss the specific and intrinsic loss power as measures of the efficiency of magnetic fluid heating and discuss optimality conditions in terms of fluid and field parameters. Our results are helpful to reconcile contradictory findings in the literature and provide an important step towards a more consistent understanding. In addition, our findings also help to select experimental conditions that optimize magnetic fluid heating applications.