Structural, Optical, Relaxor and Transport Properties of a Nanocrystalline Double Perovskite: Ba₂(FeMo)O₆

Abstract

The paper presents a synthesis (solid-state. reaction) and characterization of a lead-free double perovskite oxide Ba2(FeMo)O6 ceramic. The initial analysis using X-ray diffraction revealed that the material has a cubic crystal symmetry with a micro-lattice strain of 0.000824 and an average crystallite size of 62[Formula: see text]nm. The microstructural features and elemental composition of the prepared polycrystalline sample were examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). The SEM micrograph, EDX spectrum and elemental mapping show distinctly grown grains with well-defined grain boundaries, purity and distribution pattern of the grains, respectively. Raman scattering spectroscopy is a valuable tool for studying the vibrational modes to get information about structural and chemical properties of materials. The optical properties of the material were investigated using UV–Vis spectroscopy, which provides various parameters including energy bandgap for different technological applications. The electrical behavior of the synthesized double perovskite was examined through frequency- and temperature-dependent dielectric measurements as well as impedance spectroscopy. The electrical conduction in the material followed Jonscher’s power law and is supported by a thermally activated conduction mechanism. The analysis of electrical resistance versus temperature confirms negative temperature coefficient of resistance nature and can be used as NTC thermistors. The study of polarization-electric field loop opens up the possibility of the ferroelectric nature of the studied sample and also measures energy storage density, energy loss density and efficiency for searching different potential applications related to sensors. Overall, the results suggest its potential for various technological applications, such as in sensors and devices requiring specific electrical behavior or ferroelectric properties.