Preparation and magnetoelectric properties of NiFe2O4-PZT composites obtained in-situ by gel-combustion method

Magnetoelectric composites of xNiFe(2)O(4)-(1 - x)Pb(Zr,Ti)O-3 with x = 2, 5, 10, 20, 30% were prepared by citrate nitrate combustion using PZT-based template powders. In order to ensure a better connectivity of dissimilar phases, we have used chemical methods for preparation in situ composites, followed by adequate sintering procedure. The structural, microstructural and functional properties of di-phase magnetoelectric composites of NiFe2O4-PZT are reported. The XRD analysis is demonstrating the synthesis of pure ferrite phase directly on the ferroelectric templates. An excellent mixing was obtained in the composite powders, as proved by a detailed SEM analysis. The magnetic and dielectric behaviors of the ceramic composites vary with the ratio of the two phases. The dielectric behavior is greatly influenced by the magnetic phase. The magnetoelectric (ME) coefficient was measured as a function of applied DC magnetic field. The maximum ME coefficient (dE/dH) varies from 0.0011 mV/(cm Oe) to 0.5 mV/(cm Oe) with increasing of NF addition. (c) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.