Ram S. Barkule, Sudarshana G. Badhe, Mahendra D. Shelar
1 Department of Physics, Sundarrao More Arts, Commerce and Science College, Poladpur, Raigad, 402303 India
2 Department of Physics, R.B. Attal Arts, Science and Commerce College, Georai, Beed, 431127 India
3 Department of Chemistry, Rajarshi Shahu Art’s, Commerce and Science College, Pathri, 431111 India
*Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed:
rambarkule@gmail.com (R. S. Barkule)
ABSTRACT
Spinel ferrites (MeFe₂O₄) with divalent cations like Co²⁺ and Zn²⁺ exhibit unique crystal structures and magnetic properties, making them essential in various applications. This study focuses on CoZnFe-oxide nanoparticles (NPs), synthesized using a wet chemical method. X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed a single-phase cubic spinel structure, while scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed clustered, spherical nanoparticles with rough surfaces. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy identified absorption peaks corresponding to metal-oxygen bond vibrations. DC resistivity measurements indicated thermally activated conduction behavior, typical of semiconductors. Magnetic analysis through an M-H plot confirmed ferromagnetic behavior with significant saturation magnetization, coercivity, and remanence. These findings demonstrate the structural, electrical, and magnetic characteristics of Co0.8Zn0.2Fe2O4 nanoparticles, highlighting their potential in semiconductor technology, nanosensors, biomedical applications, and more.
Significance of the Study:
This study highlights the synthesis and characterization of CoZnFe-oxide nanoparticles, revealing their unique structural, electrical, and magnetic properties. By exploring these characteristics, the research underscores the potential of these nanoparticles in diverse applications, including semiconductor technology, nanosensors, and biomedical fields, making it a significant contribution to materials science and nanotechnology.
Summary of the Study:
The study investigates CoZnFe-oxide nanoparticles synthesized via a wet chemical method. Structural analysis confirmed a single-phase cubic spinel structure, while SEM and FTIR identified clustered, spherical nanoparticles with rough surfaces. Electrical and magnetic assessments demonstrated semiconductor-like conduction and ferromagnetic behavior, indicating their suitability for various technological applications, including semiconductor devices, sensors, and biomedical uses.