Synthesis, Structural, Microscopic, and Electrical Properties Studies of Neodymium Chromite Perovskite Nanoparticles

Abstract

NdCrO3 perovskite compound was synthesized via sol-gel auto-combustion process and the impedance spectroscopic data was studied in the wide frequency range (0.1Hz -10MHz), at various temperatures (RT-500°C). Structural analysis was done using Raman spectroscopy, which indicated single-phase orthorhombic structure. Energy dispersive X-ray diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy showed Nd, Cr, O elements in the NdCrO3 compound, suggesting that the sample was pure. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis confirmed that the distribution of grains and particles was not uniform throughout the surface and material, respectively. TEM imaging indicated that the polycrystalline nature and particle size was on the order of 30-50 nm. This material showed the giant dielectric behavior (ε^'>〖10〗^4). Impedance studies of NdCrO3 perovskite exhibited a negative temperature coefficient of resistance type semiconductor behaviour. The dc conductivity and relaxation plots were followed by Arrhenius law. Frequency reliant ac conductivity plots followed Jonscher’s power law. These results suggest that NdCrO3 is suitable for giant capacitors applications.