Variation in the magnetic moment of Indium doped Ce0.1Y2.9Fe5O12 garnet relative to the site inversion

Abstract

Prominent changes in magnetic moment has been observed for In3+ doped cubic garnet ferrites prepared by the modified sol-gel auto combustion method. Systematic studies on the structure and magnetic properties have been carried out. The malate glycolate precursor proves to be efficient in the synthesis of the garnet system. X-ray Diffraction technique has been utilized to confirm the phase formation and purity. Morphology of the compounds has been determined with the help of Scanning Electron Microscopy proving the particles to be submicron in size. X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy have been used to confirm the desired valence states and monophasic formation of the compounds. Selective occupation of the tetrahedral over octahedral sites by In3+ ions for the first doped compound has been proved with the help of Mossbauer spectroscopy. Influence of site selectivity of In3+ ions on the resultant magnetic properties have been investigated by vibrating sample magnetometer. Magnetic moment with respect to the Zero Field Cooling and Field Cooling is also measured. Selective occupation of the tetrahedral sites by the In3+ ions with initial doping and its effect on the overall magnetic properties is a significant finding of this investigation.