Effect of silica matrix on structural, optical and electrical properties of Li0.5Fe2.5O4 nanoparticles

Lithium ferrite nanoparticles were dispersed in silica matrix to minimize agglomeration. Structural and electrical properties of [Li0.5Fe2.5O4](1-x)[SiO2](x) (x = 0, 50-90%) nanocomposites synthesized using ultrasonic assisted sol-gel method have been investigated. X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurement confirms phase purity of all the nanocomposites. Crystallite size varies gradually from 29.08 to 17.54 nm with increase in silica content. Higher absorption in dispersed samples compared to pure Lithium ferrite is observed by ultra-violet visible (UV-Vis) measurement. Complex impedance spectroscopy was employed where permittivity and conductivity plots were theoretically fitted using Cole-Cole model and Jonscher's power law, respectively. (c) 2021 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

Lithium ferrite nanoparticles dispersed in a silica matrix show promising applications due to their good dispersion and stability. XRD measurements and UV-Vis absorption spectra indicate significant changes in the structure and performance of the nanocomposites with increasing silica content. The use of complex impedance spectroscopy enables accurate modeling of the electrical properties of the materials.