Preparation, Structural, and Magnetic Properties of Soft (Ni0.6Zn0.4Fe2O4) and Hard (BaFe12O19) Ferrite Composites

Barium hexaferrite (BaFe12O19) and Ni-Zn ferrite (Ni0.6Zn0.4Fe2O4) powders were synthesized using the microwave hydrothermal method. Composite samples with varying ratios {x(Ni0.6Zn0.4Fe2O4) + (1 - x) (BaFe12O19)} (where x ranged from 0 to 1.0) were prepared through mechanical mixing. The pure and composite samples were subjected to a 4-h heat treatment at 800 degrees C. The structural characteristics of the pure samples were analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), revealing the hexagonal structure of BaFe12O19 and the spinel structure of Ni0.6Zn0.4Fe2O4. Morphological properties were investigated using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). The results confirmed a hexagonal morphology for BaFe12O19, a spherical morphology for Ni0.6Zn0.4Fe2O4, and a mixed morphology for the composites, with grain sizes ranging from 50 to 200 nm. The optical properties were explored through UV-Vis absorption studies, and the optical energy gap values were determined using the Tauc plots. The magnetic behavior of the samples was studied by analyzing magnetic hysteresis loops. Pure samples exhibited a smooth hysteresis behavior, while composite samples displayed a step-like pattern. A possible relation between the magnetic interaction between the two different materials in the composites was investigated.