Effect on Magnetic, morphological and structural properties of Zn2+-Zr4+ substituted SrM for permanent magnet based appliances

The purpose of the study is to assess the influence of Zn2+-Zr4+ dopant upon morphological and magnetic aspects of SrM (M−type Strontium hexaferrites). In the current investigation, a series of SrZnxZrxFe12-2xO19 (x = 0.00–0.15) were manufactured by employing the sol–gel auto-combustion technique (SGACT). The formation of the pure phase has been revealed from XRD data of strontium hexaferrites without the existence of an intermediate phase for instance α–Fe2O3, SrFe2O4 and SrCO3. The lattice parameter ‘c’ increases from 23.0601 to 23.0703 Å and cell volume increases to 692. 68 Å3 from 691.38 Å3 with an increment in Zn2+-Zr4+ content. With substitution, FESEM images reveal an increase in the particle as well as agglomerates size. DLS data also show an increase in size of particle from x = 0.00 (≈130 nm) to x = 0.15 (≈ 500 nm). Raman spectra reveal crystals straining with an increment in Zn2+-Zr4+ content. The coercivity values (Hc) range from 5164Oe (x = 0.00) to 6210Oe (x = 0.15) as disseminated by magnetic measurements. The corresponding values of saturation magnetization (Ms) fall between 71.22 and 82.16 emu/g. The augmentation in magnetic characteristics of SrM upon doping with Zn2+-Zr4+ could be vital for permanent magnet applications.