Adjusting the gas detection characteristics of NiFe2O4 spinel ferrite nanoparticles through the introduction of Zn doping

Abstract

Nickel ferrite nanoparticles doped with zinc were synthesized at a lower reaction temperature of 180 °C. The research delved into their structural, optical, dielectric, and magnetic properties. These nanoparticles exhibited a distinct cubic spinel structure, with crystallite sizes ranging from 33 to 51 nm. FTIR analysis revealed metal oxide stretching vibrations between 400–600 nm. FESEM and HR-TEM examinations unveiled irregularly shaped nano-particles. XPS analysis disclosed the chemical states of Zn2+, Fe3+, and Ni2+ ions. Mossbauer spectra exhibited two sextet patterns related to tetrahedral (A) and octahedral (B) sites, plus a weak doublet pattern. Magnetic tests showed a decrease in saturation magnetization (Ms) but an increase in remanent magnetization (Mr) and coercivity (Hc) values upon doping.

Keywords

• Ni-Zn ferrites
• Electron paramagnetic resonance
• Mossbauer
• Ferromagnetism