Template synthesis of one-dimensional nanostructured spinel zinc ferrite

Zinc and iron nitrates with molar ratio of 1 : 2 were introduced into mesoporous silica host SBA-15 via a “two-solvent” route. The thermal decomposition of the precursors inside SBA-15 and the formation of spinel phase were monitored by X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric and differential thermal analysis. The one-dimensional nanostructured spinel zinc ferrite in mesopores and pure spinel ZnFe2O4 nanowires, obtained through complete removal of the silica template with aqueous NaOH solution, were confirmed by TEM. The nanowires exhibited superparamagnetism at room temperature, whereas the bulk spinel ZnFe2O4 showed weak paramagnetism.