The researchers first created separate nanoparticles of two materials, lead selenide and magnetic iron oxide, with precise dimensions.

ECONOMIST: MONITOR

Even so, he pointed out that some nanoparticles potentially serving as the basis for savvy devices of the future are already in use, including magnetic iron oxide particles used for advanced body imaging.

MSN: Scientists look to sperm to power nanobots

That would change the way the magnetic field of the iron oxide interacts with the semiconducting behaviour of the lead selenide.

ECONOMIST: MONITOR

In some of the packing arrangements, the quantum dots are huddled together, and thus are less susceptible to the magnetic field from the iron oxide nanoparticles.

ECONOMIST: MONITOR

Iron oxide was selected for its magnetic properties.

ECONOMIST: MONITOR

Iron oxide is used in coatings for magnetic recording materials.

FORBES: IBM Nanotechnology Goes 3-D