Magnetism mediated by a majority of [Fe3+ + ] complexes in Fe-doped CeO2 nanoparticles

Abstract

We examine the role of Fe3+ and vacancies () on the magnetism of Fe-doped CeO2 nanoparticles. Magnetic nanoparticles of Ce100−xFexO2 (x = 0, 0.26, 1.82, 2.64, 5.26, 6.91, and 7.22) were prepared by a co-precipitation method, and their structural, compositional and magnetic properties were investigated. The CeO2 nanoparticles had a mixed valance of Ce4+ and Ce3+ ions, and doping introduced Fe3+ ions. The decrease in Ce3+ and increase in Fe3+ concentrations indicated the presence of more [Fe3+ +] complexes with Fe loading in the particles. Charge neutralization, Fe3+ + + 2Ce4+ 2Ce3+ + Fe3+, identified the impact of on the magnetism, where our results suggest that the Fe-doped CeO2 nanoparticle magnetism is mediated by a majority of [Fe3+ +]—Ce3+ —[Fe3+ +] complexes.