Comprehensive structural analysis, magnetic, elastic, and optical properties of Cu–Ni–Co spinel and its potential applications

Abstract

This work investigates the Cu0·6Ni0·2Co0·2FeAlO4 (CNCFAO) spinel nanoparticle, focusing on its structural, magnetic, elastic, and optical properties. The structural analysis provided various parameters, such as lattice parameter, crystallite size, and bond lengths, which were compared to theoretical values. The force constants of the sample were used to calculate stiffness constants (C11, C12, and C44), which in turn were used to determine elastic moduli such as the bulk modulus (B), longitudinal modulus (L), and rigidity modulus (G). The calculated Pugh ratio (B/G) indicated the brittle mechanical nature of the sample, while the Poisson ratio (σ) was estimated as σ = 0.25, consistent with isotropic elasticity theory. The sample demonstrated a low coercive field, indicating its potential for soft magnetic devices. Optical characteristics were evaluated using the Tauc method, revealing a direct optical transition with estimated band-gap (Eg) and Urbach (Eu) energies of 2.38 eV and 0.59 eV, respectively. Additional optical properties, including the penetration depth, refractive index, and extinction coefficient, were thoroughly examined. These results provide valuable insights into the potential optoelectronic applications of the synthesized sample.