Structural, Morphological and Magnetic Tuning of Eu-Doped SmFeO₃ Perovskite Nanoparticles

This study explores the impact of europium (Eu) doping on the structural, morphological, and magnetic characteristics of samarium ferrite (SmFeO₃), a perovskite-type nanomaterial with considerable potential in advanced functional applications. SmFeO₃ nanoparticles were synthesized using the solution combustion method, a fast, cost-effective, and energy-efficient technique well known for yielding fine powders with high phase purity, uniform particle distribution, and desirable morphological features. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the successful formation of a single-phase orthorhombic perovskite structure in all synthesized samples. With increasing Eu doping concentrations (0%, 5%, and 9%), a progressive decline in crystallinity was observed, indicating lattice strain and structural distortion without disruption of the fundamental phase symmetry. Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) revealed a notable reduction in particle size and a transformation in surface morphology as the Eu content increased, suggesting improved homogeneity and finer grain boundaries. Energy-Dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy provided clear evidence of successful europium incorporation, as shown by the elemental detection of Sm, Fe, O, and Eu, confirming the dopant's integration into the host lattice. Magnetic analysis conducted using Vibrating Sample Magnetometry (VSM) demonstrated that Eu doping significantly influenced the magnetic behaviour of SmFeO₃. Specifically, changes in both saturation magnetization and coercivity were recorded, suggesting modulation of magnetic interactions because of lattice alterations caused by Eu substitution. Overall, the findings establish that europium doping effectively tailors the structural and magnetic properties of SmFeO₃ nanoparticles, enhancing their potential for use in future spintronic devices, magnetic sensors, and catalytic systems.