Structural, spectroscopic and magnetic characterization of undoped, Ni2+ doped ZnO nanopowders

Structural, magnetic and optical properties of undoped and Ni2+ doped ZnO nanopowders have been prepared by sonochemical assistance. Powder XRD studies confirm the hexagonal structure of both undoped and Ni2+ doped of ZnO nanopowders and its average crystallite sizes are evaluated. Optical absorption and Electron Paramagnetic Resonance spectral data confirmed the site symmetry for Ni2+ ions as octahedral. Photoluminescence spectra exhibited the emission bands in ultraviolet and blue regions at an excitation wavelength of 328 nm. FT-IR spectra showed the characteristic vibrational bands of Zn-O. Vibrating sample magnetometer was used for the magnetic property investigations and indicates room temperature ferromagnetism which is intrinsic in nature and attributed to oxygen and/or Zn deficiencies. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.