Enhanced Microwave Absorption Properties of Intrinsically Core/shell Structured La0.6Sr0.4MnO3 Nanoparticles

The intrinsically core/shell structured La0.6Sr0.4MnO3 nanoparticles with amorphous shells and ferromagnetic cores have been prepared. The magnetic, dielectric and microwave absorption properties are investigated in the frequency range from 1 to 12 GHz. An optimal reflection loss of -41.1 dB is reached at 8.2 GHz with a matching thickness of 2.2 mm, the bandwidth with a reflection loss less than -10 dB is obtained in the 5.5-11.3 GHz range for absorber thicknesses of 1.5-2.5 mm. The excellent microwave absorption properties are a consequence of the better electromagnetic matching due to the existence of the protective amorphous shells, the ferromagnetic cores, as well as the particular core/shell microstructure. As a result, the La0.6Sr0.4MnO3 nanoparticles with amorphous shells and ferromagnetic cores may become attractive candidates for the new types of electromagnetic wave absorption materials.