Enhanced ferromagnetic properties of multiferroic Bi1-xSrxMn0.2Fe0.8O3 synthesized by sol-gel process

Bi1-xSrxMn0.2Fe0.8O3 ceramics have been prepared by sol-gel process, and their physical properties have been studied. These samples exhibit enhanced ferromagnetization without disturbing their ferroelectric properties. The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) results reveal the origin of spontaneous magnetization in these samples. Adding Sr2+ ions to BiMn0.2Fe0.8O3 system requires charge compensation, which can be achieved by formation of Mn4+. The statistical distribution of Mn3+ and Mn4+ ions in the octahedral leads to net magnetization and ferromagnetism. (C) 2007 Published by Elsevier B.V.