Structural, morphological, magnetic, and electrical properties of ZrFe2-xNixO5 nanoparticles (x = 0–0.05) synthesized via sol-gel auto-combustion

The present work focuses on a detailed investigation into the structural, morphological, magnetic, impedance, and dielectric properties of Ni-doped Zr Fe 2 O 5 , synthesized via the sol-gel auto-combustion method. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements confirm the formation of a monoclinic crystal structure with the C2/c space group. Rietveld refinement analysis was carried out for all the samples and the lattice parameters. Morphological characterization using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) reveals a non-uniform distribution of grains and distinct grain boundaries indicate both doping and the sol-gel auto-combustion process impacts on the material's structure. Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (EDAX) study verifies chemical composition of Zr Fe 2 O 5 and stoichiometric doping of nickel into Zr Fe 2 O 5 . Room temperature (300 K) magnetic hysteresis (M-H) loop reveals Ni-doped Zr Fe 2 O 5 are soft ferromagnetic in nature and retentivity, coercivity, remanent magnetization and low squareness ratio (S<0.05) indicates the materials possess multi domain ferromagnetic state. Doping of nickel into Zr Fe 2 O 5 decreases remanent magnetization, retentivity, squareness ratio and magnetic moments. Room temperature (300 K) frequency-dependent electrical properties were analyzed comprehensively, showing that the impedance and dielectric behavior are governed by non-Debye type dielectric relaxation. Doping of nickel into Zr Fe 2 O 5 increases impedance and decreases dielectric constant. AC conductivity analysis demonstrates a distinctive response with two prominent peaks, one observed at low frequencies and another at higher frequencies, suggesting complex charge transport mechanisms. This study provides insights into the complex interaction between the Ni doping, the sol-gel auto-combustion synthesis and the resulting multi-functional properties of Ni doped Zr Fe 2 O 5 and suggesting its potential as a promising candidate for tunable magnetic and dielectric device applications. • Ni-doped ZrFe₂O₅ synthesized by sol-gel technique and shows the monoclinic crystal structure with the C2/c space group. • SEM and EDAX analysis revealed non-uniform grain distribution and distinct grain boundaries influenced by Ni doping. • Room-temperature M–H hysteresis loops showed soft ferromagnetic behavior with low remanence and coercivity. • Impedance and dielectric measurements indicated non-Debye type relaxation processes. • AC conductivity spectra displayed two peaks suggesting complex charge transport mechanisms.