Structural analysis and evaluation of magnetic exchange interactions via cation distribution technique in Mg0.9Mn0.1AlxFe2-xO4 ferrites

Abstract

Mg0.9Mn0.1AlxFe2-xO4 (x = 0.1, 0.3, 0.5) were synthesized by citrate precursor technique and explored for detailed structural analysis. X-ray diffraction technique was used to confirm the phase formation and it revealed the formation of single phase cubic spinel structure. The surface morphology of samples was studied by using scanning electron microscopy. Theoretical lattice parameter and ionic radius of tetrahedral as well as octahedral site was observed to decrease with the incorporation of Al 3+ ions. Theoretical estimation of magnetic exchange interactions based on the cation distribution confirmed the weakening of super-exchange interactions with the incorporation of Al 3+ ions in Mg-Mn ferrite matrix.