Functionalized Magnet Surface Homogeneity via Preliminary Action
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Solution Overview
Problem
The production of functionalized ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic magnets is challenging due to strong magnetic interactions that interfere with surface functionalization, leading to inhomogeneous coverage of desired moieties, which is essential for sample preparation and analytical methods like mass spectrometry.
Innovation Solution
A solid magnetized or magnetizable composition with a ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic core, where surface moieties such as binding, biomolecules, or chemically reactive groups are covalently bound or attached to the core, allowing for efficient functionalization before magnetization, thereby avoiding magnetic interference and ensuring homogeneous coverage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic materials are used to create macroscopic magnets, then the magnets can perform cell lysis and biomolecule fragmentation without enzymes, but the strong magnetic interactions interfere with surface functionalization and render surface coverage inhomogeneous
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing surface functionalization before magnetization. The core is functionalized with binding moieties, biomolecules, or chemically reactive groups while in a non-magnetized or weakly magnetized state, ensuring homogeneous surface coverage. Only after functionalization is complete is the core subjected to strong magnetic fields for final magnetization, thereby avoiding magnetic interference during the sensitive functionalization process.
2Productivity
If a plurality of magnets are exposed to functionalization conditions simultaneously, then production efficiency increases, but strong magnetic interactions between magnets interfere with the functionalization process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by performing functionalization before magnetization. Multiple cores can be functionalized simultaneously in a non-magnetized state without magnetic interference, achieving both high productivity and homogeneous surface coverage. After functionalization is complete, the functionalized cores are then magnetized individually or in groups, ensuring that magnetic interactions do not compromise functionalization quality.
3Device complexity
If ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic materials are used instead of paramagnetic particles, then a small number of macroscopic magnets can replace large numbers of microparticles, but the strong magnetic interactions complicate handling during functionalization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by functionalizing the core before magnetization. This sequence allows the core to be handled easily during functionalization in a non-magnetized or weakly magnetized state, avoiding complications from strong magnetic interactions. After functionalization is complete, the core is magnetized to achieve the desired macroscopic magnetic properties, combining ease of manufacture with system simplicity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables the production of functionalized magnets that can perform cell lysis, biomolecule fragmentation, and specific binding, enhancing sample preparation workflows by facilitating homogeneous functionalization and easier handling of magnetic materials before magnetization.
Implementation Method 1
a core consisting of or comprising a ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material
Implementation Method 2
The core may be magnetized by exposure to a magnetic field
Implementation Method 3
wherein said moiety is covalently bound to (a) said core; or (b) a layer which is directly or indirectly attached to said core
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a solid, magnetized or magnetizable composition comprising (i) a core consisting of or comprising a ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material; and (ii) at least one surface moiety selected from (1) a binding moiety; (2) a biomolecule; and (3) a chemically reactive moiety; wherein said moiety is covalently bound to (a) said core; or (b) a layer which is directly or indirectly attached to said core. The invention furthermore provides methods of producing such compositions and uses thereof.