Ferrite nanoparticles by sol–gel method

The choice of synthesis method depends mainly on the shape and scale desired for the final magnetic spinel ferrite. The sol–gel auto-combustion method has come across as a convenient method of obtaining nanosized ferrites with superior physicochemical properties such as increased surface-to-volume ratio, chemical stability, novel morphologies, good magnetic and electric properties. The sol–gel method is based on a very exothermic redox reaction between the oxidizing metal salts and fuels as chelating/combustion agents for obtaining fine oxide powders with greater homogeneity and purity which possesses the desired structural characteristics. The energy efficiency, good stoichiometric control, and reproducibility in the preparation of mesoporous ferrites with multifunctional nanostructures are of huge significance for studying fundamental phenomena in low-dimensional systems. This chapter will review the origin, processing, applications, and advantages of using the sol–gel auto-combustion method for the preparation of nanoferrites. The analysis of various parameters of reaction which could be used for a better understanding between the synthesis process and control of microstructure and property relationship of spinel ferrite nanopowder products is discussed.