The Structural, Electric and Dielectric Properties of Ni0.7Cd0.3NdxFe2-xO4 (0≤x≤0.03) Ferrite Prepared via Oxalate Co-Precipitation Route

In present work Ni0.7Cd0.3NdxFe2-xO4 ferrite samples (0 <= x <= 0.03) were prepared by using oxalate co-precipitation technique. The different characterization techniques were utilized including X-ray diffraction (XRD), FT-infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), DC electrical resistivity and dielectric measurements. The crystal structure, crystallite size, lattice constant, unit cell volume and theoretical density were systematically analysed. The XRD and FT-IR measurements confirmed the formation of single phase spinel ferrite structure. The cation distribution among the octahedral and tetrahedral sites were proposed on the basis of analysis of XRD patterns by employing Rietveld refinement analysis. The samples exist as a mixed type spinel with cubic structure. The DC electrical resistivity confirms the semiconducting behaviour and the Curie temperature decreased with the increase in Nd3+ content. The dielectric constant and loss tangent decreased with frequency and at higher frequencies remained constant, which shows the usual dielectric dispersion due to space charge polarization. The AC conductivity reveals that the small type polarons are responsible for conduction process.