Effects of Manganese (Mn) Substitution on the Structural, Surface, and Magnetic Properties of Zn1-XMnxFe2O4 Nanostructures Prepared by Hydrothermal

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of manganese (Mn) substitution on the structural, surface, and magnetic properties of spinel ferrite (Zn1-xMnxFe2O4) prepared by the hydrothermal method. X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed the spinel ferrite phase, with minor shifts in diffraction peaks due to variations in lattice parameters after Mn substitution. Field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) revealed spherical nanoparticles with average sizes ranging from 21 to 100 nm, varying with the Mn content. The vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM) demonstrated the highest saturation magnetization (Ms =17.35 emu/g) at x = 0.4, attributed to optimal Mn substitution that enhances superexchange interactions. However, excessive Mn concentration led to reduced magnetization. Additionally, the coercivity (Hc) increased slightly at x = 0.2 (Oe= 293) due to changes in anisotropy caused by particle size and shape variations. The results demonstrated how Mn substitution at a moderate ratio adjusted the surface morphology, magnetic, and structural characteristics of Zn1-xMnxFe2O4, which makes them candidates for various applications.