Effect of co substitution of Mg and Zn on electromagnetic properties of NiCuZn ferrites

Ni0.5-2xMgxCu0.05Zn0.45+xFe2O4 (x=0, 0.04, 0.08, 0.12, and 0.16) ferrite samples were prepared through sol-gel method using polyvinyl alcohol as a chelating agent. Structural, magnetic, dielectric and electrical properties of the sintered samples were investigated using the characterisation techniques such as X-ray Diffractometer, Vibration sample magnetometer and impedance analyser respectively. X-ray diffraction patterns confirmed the formation of single phase cubic spinel structure of the samples. FTIR spectra showed two prominent bands (400 cm(-1) and 600 cm(-1)) corresponding to characteristic of ferrites. Substitution of Mg and Zn for Ni showed gradual decrease of both magnetisation and coercivity. Magnetic permeability showed increasing trend with composition due to low anisotropy constant of Mg and Zn compared to Ni. Dielectric properties of the samples showed that both the dielectric constant as well as the dielectric loss factor was decreased with the composition. Cole-Cole plots consist of distorted semicircle with increasing diameter as a function of composition indicating improved resistance of the samples. The effect of substitution of Mg and Zn for Ni in NiCuZn ferrite system resulted in improved permeability with high cut off frequency, reduced dielectric losses and enhanced resistance of the samples. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.