Synthesis and Characterization of NiFe₂O₄ Nanoparticles: Structural and Optical Insights

Abstract

Spinel ferrites, represented by the formula XFe₂O₄ where X is a divalent metal ion, demonstrate notable properties that vary with particle size and surface-to-volume ratio. Among these, nickel ferrite (NiFe₂O₄) is distinguished by its high saturation magnetization, catalytic activity, and excellent chemical stability. This study focuses on NiFe₂O₄ nanoparticles synthesized via co-precipitation. These nanoparticles are investigated for their diverse applications, including magnetic storage, MRI enhancement, targeted drug delivery, environmental monitoring, electronics, and energy storage. The synthesis involves using iron (III) nitrate and nickel nitrate with sodium hydroxide, followed by calcinations. Characterization of the nanoparticles includes Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), UV-Vis, and Photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. Results reveal an average particle size of 274.4 nm, a band gap of 2.49 eV transitions, and distinct photoluminescence emission peaks at 237 nm. XRD confirms the crystalline phase of the nanoparticles, which shows improved characteristics with increased calcinations temperature.

Keywords: – Synthesis, Dynamic Light Scattering, Nanomaterial.

Pankaj Srivastava1*, Preetam Singh Gour2