| abstract |
In some embodiments, the present disclosure pertains to magnetic nanoparticles for magnetically detecting hydrocarbons in a geological structure. In some embodiments, the magnetic nanoparticles generally include: a core particle; and a temperature responsive polymer associated with the core particle. In some embodiments, the temperature responsive polymer is selected from the group consisting of polyacrylamides, polyethylene glycols, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the temperature responsive polymer facilitates an agglomeration of the nanoparticles in a fluid at an organic/aqueous interface of the fluid, an organic phase of the fluid, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the agglomeration occurs at a specific temperature or temperature range. Further embodiments of the present disclosure pertain to methods for detecting hydrocarbons in a geological structure by utilizing the magnetic nanoparticles of the present disclosure. |