Optimization of parameters for the synthesis of nano-sized Co_1−xZn_xFe₂O₄, (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.8) by microwave refluxing

Abstract

An optimization study of different parameters for the synthesis of well dispersed nanoparticles (5–30 nm) of the system Co1−xZnxFe2O4, (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.8) has been carried out using a novel microwave refluxing method. Ethylene glycol has been used as the medium which serves as the solvent as well as a complexing and capping agent. The parameters chosen were the zinc content (x), pH of the solution, reflux time and the metal∶ethylene glycol ratio. The influence of the above parameters is discussed in terms of the chemistry of the reactions and the role of ethylene glycol. The method appears much superior to other chemical/hydrothermal methods in terms of size distribution and dispersity of the nanoparticles.