Electrical Properties of <scp> <scp>Mn</scp> </scp> _{3− <i>x</i>} <scp> <scp>Co</scp> </scp> _<i>x</i> <scp> <scp>O</scp> </scp> ₄ (0 ≤ <i>x</i> ≤ 3) Ceramics: An Interesting System for Negative Temperature Coefficient Thermistors

Abstract

Single‐phase spinel manganese cobalt oxides Mn 3− x Co x O 4 dense ceramics were prepared for the first time and their structural/electrical property relationships characterized. The electrical properties, that is, the resistivity at 25°C, the energetic constant, and the resistance drift at 125°C, were determined and correlated with the cation distribution. Finally, the electrical characteristics of the Mn 3− x Co x O 4 system were compare'd with other important classes of manganese‐based spinel oxides, Mn 3− x Ni x O 4 and Mn 3− x Cu x O 4 , already commercialized as negative temperature coefficient ( NTC ) thermistors. The high values of energetic constant and low resistivities observed in Mn 3− x Co x O 4 ceramics present a promising interest for such industrial applications.