Sol–gel based Pechini method synthesis and characterization of Sm1 − xCaxFeO3 perovskite 0.1 ≤ x ≤ 0.5

This study initiates the preparation of Sm1 − xCaxFeO3 (0.1 ≤ x ≤ 0.5) compounds by sol–gel based Pechini method at low temperatures. The samples are analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), and Differential Thermal Analysis (DTA) techniques for appropriate characterization of the distinct thermal events occurring during synthesis. The resulting XRD data reveal that a pure phase with perovskite structure is obtained for each composition. An exothermic peak appears in the DTA curve at 700 °C for x = 0.1 sample, suggesting a crystallization process; a similar behavior is found to occur for the other compositions as well. The microstructural characteristics of all the phases show particles of different morphology and size.

Graphical abstractPure Sm1 − xCaxFeO3 (0.1 ≤ x ≤ 0.5) powders were firstly prepared at low temperature using Ca(NO3)2 • 4H2O, Sm(NO3)3 • 6H2O, Fe(C2H3O2)2, citric acid and ethylene glycol. From the following figure, it can be found that the pure samarium–calcium orthoferrites powders can be prepared by sol–gel based Pechini method.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► This job presents the synthesis the Sm1 − xCaxFeO3 (0.1 ≤ x ≤ 0.5) at low temperatures. ► The sol–gel based Pechini technique was used to obtain these compounds. ► This is the first time that technique of synthesis was used to obtain this system. ► The samples were analyzed by XRD, SEM, TGA and DTA.