Finite size effect on Ni doped nanocrystalline Ni_xZn _{1 - X}Fe₂O₄ (0.1 ≤ x ≤ 0.5)

Nanocrystalline nickel ferrite with different concentration of Ni and Zn (Ni_xZn_{1 - x}Fe₂O₄ where x = 0.1, 0.3, 0.5) were synthesized using chemical co-precipitation method. The effect of doping ion concentration on physical properties like crystalline phase, crystallite size, particle size, and saturation magnetization are investigated. The X-ray diffraction pattern confirms the synthesis of single crystalline Ni_xZn_{1 - x}Fe₂O₄ nanoparticles. The lattice parameter decreases with increase Ni content resulting in reduction of lattice strain. HRTEM images revealed that the as-prepared nanoparticles were crystalline with particle size distribution in 10-30 nm range. The saturation magnetization show the superparamagnetic nature of sample for x = 0.1 and x = 0.3 whereas for x = 0.5, the material is ferromagnetic. The saturation magnetization value is 23.95 emu/gm for Ni_0.1Zn_0.9Fe ₂O₄ sample and it increases with increase in Ni content.