X-ray diffraction and IR absorption in the system Co0.6Zn0.4MnxFe2-xO4 before and after γ-irradiation

X-ray diffraction patterns and IR spectra were carried out on the compositions Co0.6Zn0.4MnxFe2-xO4 ferrites before and after gamma-irradiation. (x = 0.7, 0.8 0.9 and 1.0). The shift of the diffracted lines in the X-ray patterns was attributed to creation of ferrous ions Fe2+ after gamma-irradiation which have a larger size than that of ferric ions. The breaking of the relation between electrical resistivity and temperature was ascribed to a change in the type of conductivity. The activation energy of hopping electrons decreased after gamma-irradiation and increased for high temperature. The particle size of the different compositions increased after gamma-irradiation. These compositions are very useful in sensors for detecting radiation pollution. (C) 2003 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.