Saturation magnetization and structural analysis of Ni0.6Zn0.4Nd y Fe2−y O4 by XRD, IR and SEM techniques

Abstract

Compositions having general formula Ni0.6Zn0.4Nd y Fe2−y O4 (where y = 0, 0.01, 0.02 and 0.03) were prepared by oxalate co-precipitation method from high purity sulphates. The samples were characterized by XRD, IR and SEM techniques. X-ray diffraction measurements confirmed the formation of single phase cubic spinel structure. Lattice constant increases with rise in Nd3+ content and obeys Vegard’s law. Crystallite size of the samples lies in the range 29.98–31.15 nm. The IR spectra shows two strong absorption bands in the frequency range 400–600 cm−1. Further, it shows that Nd3+ occupies B-site. SEM studies show that the grain size of the samples decreases with increase in Nd3+ content. Saturation magnetization of Nd3+ substituted Ni–Zn ferrites is higher than unsubstituted ferrite.