XMCD Proof of Ferromagnetic Behavior in ZnO Nanoparticles

Abstract

The combined element-specific X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) and X-ray magnetic circular dichroism (XMCD) study of ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) capped with organic molecules confirms the occurrence of intrinsic ferromagnetic-like (FML) behavior up to room temperature (HTFM). Zn K-edge XMCD measurements reveal the coexistence of two different magnetic contributions: a paramagnetic response from the core of the NP, and a ferromagnetic-like contribution stemming from the interface formed between the ZnO core of the NP and the organic molecule. The extent and conformation of this interface depends on the capping molecule, and as demonstrated in ZnO/ZnS heterostructures, the FML behavior is reinforced when neat interfaces are formed.