Experimental and theoretical verification of cation distribution and spin canting effect via structural and magnetic studies of NiZnCo ferrite nanoparticles

Nanoparticles of Ni 0.6– x Zn 0.4 Co x Fe 2 O 4 were prepared via an aqueous sol–gel auto-combustion route. The Ni–Zn–ferrite system was doped with Co to improve the magnetic properties. Structural determination of the phase and crystallite size was achieved using the X-ray diffraction technique. Spinel cubic (single-phase) nanoparticles were formed at some specific compositions, x = 0.264 and x = 0.528, whereas at other compositions, a partial hematite secondary phase was formed. The values of saturation magnetization depend upon the concentration of the hematite phase; in this situation, the value of magnetic saturation decreases, causing a high spin canting effect that results in a decrease in the net magnetic moment. Further doping of Co 2+ ions enhances the magnetic properties because of its high magnetic moment and distributions. Theoretical analysis using the most suitable proposed cation distribution verified the experimental findings. The observed structural and magnetic findings may contribute to improve electromagnetic-interference-shielding and magnetic-recording-device applications. Graphical abstract