Structural, Optical and Humidity Sensing performance of Lanthanum doped CoCr2O4 nano-ceramics for Sensor Applications

Abstract

In the present study, we have investigated the influence of Lanthanum doping concentration on the structural, microstructural, dielectric, and humidity sensing performance of rare earth Lanthanum cobalt chromite nanoparticles. These nanomaterials were synthesized by the solution combustion method using glucose and urea as fuels. Structural investigations revealed that the synthesized materials are single-phase, highly crystalline, and porous, with spherical agglomerated nanoparticles of crystallite size ranging from 13 nm to 17 nm. Particle size distribution and pore area distribution were plotted using imageJ software. Energy dispersive spectroscopy confirmed the accurate elemental composition of all samples, consistent with the calculated stoichiometry. Optical absorption studies showed a blue shift in the peak as the doping concentration increased, indicating a quantum confinement effect. Dielectric constant and electrical resistivity measurements ensured that the materials are electrically conducting, which is necessary for humidity sensing applications. Humidity sensing measurements demonstrated that the capacitive humidity sensitivity coefficient (SC) and resistive humidity sensitivity coefficient (SR) were highest for the La (0.05) sample. The XPS survey spectra and high-resolution core-level spectra provide a thorough understanding of the elemental composition, oxidation states, and electronic environments in La-doped cobalt chromite nanoparticles. This detailed analysis is critical for tailoring the material's properties for specific applications in catalysis, electronics, and magnetic devices.