Synthesis, Characterization and Effects of Citric Acid and PVA on Magnetic Properties of CoFe2O4

Cobalt ferrite (CoFe2O4) particles were synthesized by sol-gel method using metal nitrates, citric acid (CA) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). X-ray diffraction (XRD), high resolution scanning electron microscopy (HR-SEM), thermogravimetry/differential scanning calorimetry analysis and vibrating sample magnetometer were used to study the structural, thermal and magnetic properties of the CoFe2O4 powder. XRD results indicate that the resultant particles have crystalline, pure single phase spinel structure. From HR-SEM images, a systematic decrease in particle size is observed with an increase in PVA concentration, along with addition of CA. CA at various concentrations of PVA significantly enhance the magnetic properties of the materials.