Abstract: The present invention relates to a magnetic nanoparticle comprising: a) a core containing a ferromagnetic material; b) an outer coating containing a mixture of a lipophilic compound and a hydrophilic compound. The outer coating of the above particle makes the nanoparticle stable in water and, simultaneously, capable of adsorbing/emulsifying large amounts of hydrophobic/lipophilic compounds. The present invention further relates to a process for the preparation of the above-mentioned particles as well as their use in the removal of hydrocarbons from solid or liquid environments and metal ions from contaminated water (wastewater).

Abstract: The present invention relates to a magnetic nanoparticle comprising: a) a core containing a ferromagnetic material; b) an outer coating containing a mixture of a lipophilic compound and a hydrophilic compound. The outer coating of the above particle makes the nanoparticle stable in water and, simultaneously, capable of adsorbing/emulsifying large amounts of hydrophobic/lipophilic compounds. The present invention further relates to a process for the preparation of the above- mentioned particles as well as their use in the removal of hydrocarbons from solid or liquid environments and metal ions from contaminated water (wastewater).