Abstract:
In this research work, Gadolinium doped cobalt ferrite (𝐶𝑜𝐹𝑒2โ𝑥
𝐺𝑑𝑥𝑂4) nanoparticles
were prepared by sol-gel auto-combustion method and their nano-composites with
Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNTs) were synthesized using ultra-sonication
route. Gadolinium (𝐺𝑑) is a rare earth element and it is very important in magnetic
resonance techniques because of its strong paramagnetic properties. The nanocomposites were characterized through UV-visible spectroscopy, Fourier Transform
Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Energy
Dispersive X-ray Analysis (EDX). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy
demonstrates the existence of functional groups on the surface of carbon nanotubes and
the aggregation of 𝐺𝑑 doped cobalt ferrites nanoparticles on MWCNTs was seen by
SEM. The absorption and the optical band gaps values are showing increasing trend
with increasing doping concentration and with CNTs deposition, which is also
evidencing the enhancement of magnetic behavior. The research revealed that
Gadolinium doping influenced the crystal structure, magnetic behavior, and electrical
conductivity of cobalt ferrite. These changes can be utilized to tailor the properties of
cobalt ferrite for specific applications like tunable dielectric devices, magnetic storages
devices, and sensors.
