Structural and magnetic properties of Co_1+ySn_yFe_2-2y-xCr_xO₄ ferrite system

Abstract

The samples of the series Co_1+ySn_yFe_{2- 2y- x}Cr_xO₄ ferrites with x = 0.0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5 and y = 0.05, were prepared by the usual double sintering ceramic technique. The single- phase spinel structure of the samples was confirmed by using X- ray diffractometry technique. The lattice parameter ’a’ with an accuracy of ± 0.002 Å were determined using Bragg peaks of XRD pattern. The lattice parameter ’a’ decreases with concentration, x, which is due to the difference in the ionic radii of Cr³⁺ and Fe³⁺ ions. The X- ray intensity calculations were carried out in order to determine the possible cation distribution amongst tetrahedral (A) and octahedral [B] sites. The X- ray intensity calculations show Cr³⁺ ions occupying B site. The saturation magnetization, σ_s, and magneton number, n_B (the saturation magnetization per formula unit), measured at 300 K determined from high field hysteresis loop technique decrease with increase in concentration, x, suggesting a decrease in ferrimagnetic behaviour. Thermal variation of low field a.c. susceptibility measurements from room temperature to about 800 K exhibits almost normal ferrimagnetic behaviour and the Curie temperature, T_C determined from a.c. susceptibility data decreases with increase in x.