NiFe2O4 nanoparticles prepared using the sol-gel process: Structural and impedance investigations

Abstract

The versatile properties of nano-crystalline ferrites (MFe2O4) are attracting the attention of researchers due to their utility in various fields, including recording media, magneto-optics, spintronics, ferro fluids, microwave devices, and more. Ferrites are also utilized in gas and humidity sensors applications, anode material for a Li/Na-ion battery, and electronic and magnetic applications. The sol–gel approach has successfully produced nickel ferrite (NiFe2O4) nanoparticles. After manufacturing, XRD and Infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) were used to learn about the powders structural properties. Scherer's formula estimates the crystallite size to be 18 nm, and an examination of the XRD patterns supports the single-phase cubic spinel structure. FTIR spectra verify the spinel phase is maintained by the distinctive vibration of ferrite atoms at tetrahedral and octahedral positions. Variations in temperature and frequency were used to conduct the impedance tests. The electrical conductivity of NiFe2O4 nanoparticles at room temperature is 5.2 × 10-6 S cm−1.