Structural, Optical and Vibrational analysis of Co²⁺ Substitution of Co_yNi_xZn_(1-y)-xFe₂O₄ Nanoferrites

Department of Physics, Banasthali Vidyapith, Banasthali - 304022, Rajasthan, India

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Published online: 5 March 2026

Abstract

This study focuses on the synthesis and characterization of nanocrystalline Co_y Ni_x Zn_(1−y)−x Fe₂O₄ ferrites, where the compositions are set with y = 0.6, 0.8 and x = 0.1, 0.3. The sol-gel method has been used to synthesis the samples, for achieve a controlled and uniform distribution of metal ions within the precursor solution. This technique is especially useful because it allows the formation of uniform nanoparticles with improved crystallinity and well-controlled shape. The XRD results showed that the samples had a single-phase cubic spinel structure, which is characteristic of ferrite materials. The broad diffraction peaks observed in the XRD patterns suggested that the synthesized particles were of nanoscale dimensions. The Debye-Scherrer equation, linking peak broadening in XRD patterns to particle diameters and suggesting nano meter -scale dimensions, was employed to evaluate crystallite sizes. To gain deeper insights into the lattice dynamics, Raman spectroscopy was performed. The obtained spectra provided valuable information regarding the vibrational modes of the ferrite structure, further confirming phase purity and the presence of characteristic spinel modes. Additionally, optical properties were analyzed using UV-VIS Spectroscopy, which revealed essential details about the band gap and light absorption behavior of the materials, making them suitable for optoelectronic applications. The synthesized nanomaterials demonstrated enhanced thermal and chemical stability compared to similar ferrite systems. Their improved stability and multifunctionality make them promising candidates for next-generation technological advancements, ensuring their relevance for future research and industrial applications.