Enhancement on the electrical and optical behaviour of ZnFe2O4 nano particles via transition metal substitution

Abstract

The present study aimed to investigate the behavior of nano Zinc Ferrite particles by copper substitution in various concentrations in order to fabricate novel material for future use in optoelectronic and electromagnetic shielding devices. To that end, Nano crystalline Zn-Cu ferrites (Cu(1-X)ZnXFe2O4: x = 0, x = 0.25, x = 0.5, x = 0.75 and x = 1) were prepared using combustion technique with egg white as a fuel. The prepared powder samples were investigated by various characterization methods such as X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), High resolution scanning electron microscope analysis (HRSEM), UV–Vis- DRS spectra and electrical analysis. The physical investigations of the final product revealed that the lattice structure of Cusubstituted at Znsites developed the spinel ferrite particles with single crystalline phase at room temperature (RT), with morphological, optical and temperature dependent electric properties. Substitution of transition metals has a significant impact on the microstructure, crystal structure, electrical parameters and optical properties of zinc ferrite nanoparticles, according to the findings. Furthermore, the dielectric constant (εr) and dielectric loss (tanδ) are investigated and found to be strongly dependent on frequency and temperature. Enhancements of electrical resistivity of mixed ferrites suggest the use of these ferrites in EM shielding devices.