Structural and dielectric analysis of Cu-doped NiCo2O4 nanoparticles synthesized by green synthesis approach

Abstract

The synthesis process of nanoparticles profoundly influences the chemical and physical properties of materials. Green synthesis, utilizing plant extracts as precursor materials, presents an environmentally friendly approach for producing metal oxide nanoparticles. In this study, we synthesized copper-doped nickel cobaltite (Ni1-xCuxCo2O4, x = 0.5) nanoparticles via a green synthesis method employing aloe vera leaf extract. Analysis of the XRD pattern revealed the formation of cubic spinel Ni0.5Cu0.5Co2O4 nanoparticles well-crystalline in nature (space group: Fd-3 m), free from secondary impurity phases. Crystalline size, determined using Debye Scherrer, modified Scherrer, and Williamson-Hall models, yielded values of ∼ 27 nm, ∼ 35 nm, and ∼ 62 nm, respectively. Dielectric studies conducted at room temperature revealed a frequency-dependent increase in dielectric constant. At lower frequencies, tangent loss (tan δ) showed higher values, which gradually decreased as frequency increased. Additionally, the AC conductivity demonstrated a significant increase with higher external field frequencies.

Keywords

• X-ray
• Green synthesis
• Spinel
• Nanoparticles
• Dielectric properties