Gamma-ray-elicited alterations in the structural, optical, and morphological attributes of spinel nickel cobaltite NiCo2O4

Abstract

BackgroundIrradiation is thought to be the most effective approach to change the crystal structure and properties of solid materials. Higher energy gamma-irradiation may change the physical properties of semiconductor materials. Gamma irradiation is recognized as an effective method for altering the crystal structure and properties of solid materials. ObjectiveThe primary goal of this study was to assess how gamma irradiation affects different properties of spinel nickel cobaltite. Materials and methodsThe co-precipitation technique was operated to synthesize spinel nickel cobaltite. The synthesized spinel nickel cobaltite nanoparticles were subjected to gamma irradiation. The study employed gamma doses ranging from 40 KGy to 60 KGy. A gamma irradiator was used for this purpose. Changes induced in the structural, optical, and morphological properties of spinel nickel cobaltite had been investigated by XRD, UV–Vis spectroscopy, SEM, and FTIR. ResultsXRD revealed that the average crystalline size of nanoparticles was decreased with gamma irradiation. The band gap, Urbach energy, and extinction coefficient, real and imaginary components of dielectric constant using absorbance and transmittance spectra. The refractive index evaluated from the Moss relation increased from 2.31 to 2.46. The refractive index calculated from Van Vechan's relation increased from 2.60 to 2.78. Urbach energy values increased from 2.14 eV to 2.89 eV with an increased dosage of gamma. It was observed that all parameters were changed by gamma irradiation. SEM study showed that the grain size of particles was decreased with gamma doses. FTIR study verified the spinel-type structure of nickel cobaltite. ConclusionThe study aimed to shed light on the effects of gamma irradiation on spinel nickel cobaltite, with a focus on its structural, optical, and morphological properties. By using a combination of characterization techniques, the researchers can assess how gamma irradiation alters the material's properties and potentially tailor it for specific applications.