Exploring the magnetic properties and magnetic coupling in SrFe12O19/ Co1-XZnXFe2O4 nanocomposites

Among hard/soft nanocomposites (NCs), ferrite-based materials are potentially promising for developing exchange-coupled systems, thus leading to enhanced magnetic properties. In this regard, we investigate the role of the synthesis approach in the development of SrFe12O19/CoFe2O4 (SFO/CFO) NCs, with special focus on tuning the magnetic features of the softer phase (CFO) by introducing Zn2+ in the spinel structure. X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and squid magnetometry were employed to clarify the relationship between morphology, size, and magnetic properties of the NCs, pointing out the feasibility of this method in obtaining successfully exchange-coupled systems. This work shows how optimizing the intrinsic magnetic properties of the CFO may be used to tune the extrinsic ones of the NCs. Despite the promising results in magnetic coupling, our study clearly confirms/strengthens that an enhancement of remanent magnetization is the most important factor for improving the magnetic performance.

Automated summary

The role of synthesis approach in developing SrFe12O19/CoFe2O4 (SFO/CFO) NCs was investigated, focusing on tuning the magnetic features of the softer phase (CFO) by introducing Zn2+ in the spinel structure. Various techniques were used to clarify the relationship between morphology, size, and magnetic properties, showing the feasibility of obtaining successful exchange-coupled systems. Optimizing the intrinsic magnetic properties of CFO was highlighted as crucial for tuning the extrinsic ones of the NCs, with the enhancement of remanent magnetization being a key factor in improving magnetic performance.