BaFe12O19/rGO Nanocomposites: A Comprehensive Study of Structural, Optical, and Magnetic Properties

This work investigates the synthesis and properties of barium hexaferrite (BaFe12O19) and its Reduced Graphene Oxide (rGO) nanocomposites using the auto-combustion sol-gel method. BaFe12O19 is known to have certain limitations in practical applications, which motivates the development of BaFe₁₂O₁₉-based nanocomposites with carbon-based materials such as rGO to enhance their multifunctional behavior. The study explores the impact of different rGO content (10%, 20%, 40%, and 50% Wt.%) on the nanocomposites’ structural, optical, and magnetic properties. The techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and magnetic hysteresis measurements were used to characterize the samples. The structural studies revealed the formation of nanocomposite. Optical studies indicated that the band gap energy decreased from 1.62 eV for pure BaFe12O19 to 1.48 eV for the composite containing 50% rGO. Concurrently, magnetic hysteresis measurements showed a reduction in saturation magnetization, from 54.21 emu/g for pure BaFe12O19 to 23.38 emu/g for the 50% rGO composite.