Synthesis, Structural, Photocatalytic Activity of Ni-Nd-Co Nano Ferrites Synthesized by Citrate Gel Auto Combustion Method

Abstract: Using the citrate gel method, nanostructured ferrites with the formula NixNdyCo1-xFe2-yO4(where x=y=0.00 to 0.5 with 0.1 variation) were synthesized in order to study their structural, morphological, andphotocatalytic activity. A cubic spinel structure with crystallite diameters between 14.62 to 32.24nm was establishedby X-ray diffraction (XRD). The lattice parameter and unit cell volume also decreased with increased doping, while X-ray density increased due to the incorporation of heavier Nd3+ ions. The microstructure confirmed successful nano-scale synthesis. Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) analysis verified the presence of all intended elements (Fe, Co, Ni, Nd, O), confirming compositional integrity. Molecular vibrations were described by Raman spectroscopy,which verified the production of spinel structures. The most intense peak in the Raman spectrum typically appearsaround 678 cm-1, attributed to the A1g mode corresponding to symmetric stretching of Fe–O bonds in the tetrahedralsites. Photocatalytic activity of the nano ferrites investigated with two organic dyes like methylene blue and acid redirradiated by visible light.