Template synthesis of one-dimensional nanostructured spinel zinc ferrite

Abstract

Zinc and iron nitrates with molar ratio of 1 : 2 were introduced into mesoporous silica host SBA-15 via a “two-solvent” route. The thermal decomposition of the precursors inside SBA-15 and the formation of spinel phase were monitored by X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric and differential thermal analysis. The one-dimensional nanostructured spinel zinc ferrite in mesopores and pure spinel ZnFe 2O 4 nanowires, obtained through complete removal of the silica template with aqueous NaOH solution, were confirmed by TEM. The nanowires exhibited superparamagnetism at room temperature, whereas the bulk spinel ZnFe 2O 4 showed weak paramagnetism.