Spin-flop transition, magnetic and microwave absorption properties of α-Fe2O4 spinel type ferrite nanoparticles

We have prepared NiFe2O4, CoFe2O4, Ni0.6Zn0.4Fe2O4 and ZnFe2O4 spinel type ferrite nanoparticles by surfactant-assisted hydrothermal process using cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB). The spin-flop transition, magnetic, dielectric and permittivity characterizations have been investigated. The spin-flop transition occurs from antiferromagnetic state to mixed state and then ferromagnetic state for Zn doped samples. The spin-flop transition occurs in the temperature range of 50-250 K. The ionic conduction, dipolar relaxation, atomic polarization and electronic polarization are the main mechanisms that contribute to the permittivity of a dielectric material. The permittivity increases with increasing frequency. This suggests a resonance behavior, which is expected when the ferrite samples are highly conductive and skin effect become significant. These samples will provide great benefits for electromagnetic applications and electromagnetic interference shielding characteristics.