Synthesis, characterization, and magnetic properties of Mn nanoferrites

Nanoparticles of Mn ferrite (Mn_xFe_3−xO₄, x = 0.0, 0.2, 0.6, and 0.8) have been successfully prepared by the co-precipitation method using the organic base ethanolamine as the chelating agent. The XRD measurements show well crystalline nano-ferrite particles with a lattice parameter gradually increasing with increasing Mn ions substitution. In contrast, XPS spectra show the existence of Mn³⁺ and Mn⁴⁺ with a crystalline size behavior. Small particle sizes and large specific surface areas in the range of 180–120 m²/g have been detected by HRTEM and BET measurements. The large values of specific surface areas nominate the samples to be good candidates for chemical and biological applications. The FT-IR and Raman spectra have supported the Rietveld refinement of XRD without forming any impurity phases. As Mn doping increases, the FMR and VSM mea-surements have indicated magnetic enhancement in the Mn nanoferrite.