Influence of zinc on the multifunctional properties of ferrites [formula omitted] (M = Cu, Mg, Ni, x = 0, 0.35)

Abstract

We study the magnetic and gas sensing properties of M1-xZnxFe2O4 where M = Cu, Mg, Ni, and x = 0, 0.35, focussing on the influence of zinc on their application as a soft magnetic material and a sensor as well. Ferrites are synthesized by thermal decomposition of the glyoxylate precursor obtained from the redox reaction between metal nitrate and ethylene glycol. The phase formation and microstructure were investigated using X-ray diffraction and electron microscopic methods. X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed the cation redistribution in the spinel lattice due to zinc doping. The porous structure was studied using nitrogen adsorption-desorption isotherms and confirmed the role of zinc on the surface structure. The magnetic properties of the ferrites under the influence of zinc were measured using a vibration sample magnetometer. The oxidation state of cations and oxygen vacancies in the spinel structure has been examined using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) which confirmed a strong interplay between the oxidation state of cations, adsorbed oxygen level, and electrical conductivity. The n-type semiconducting property has been correlated to the adsorbed oxygen abundance and its interaction with gas molecules. The study revealed enhanced soft magnetic properties of ferrite due to zinc doping. In addition, this study presents a stable and sensitive material for detecting a low concentration of carbon monoxide gas.