Synthesis, characterization and electrical properties of LiNiFeO/NiFeO nanocomposites.

NiFeO and LiNiFeO/NiFeO nanocomposite samples are prepared using citric acid and urea assisted combustion process. The prepared pristine and nanocomposite samples are characterized by using powder X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and field emission scanning electron microscopy techniques. The effect of LiNiFeO on the LiNiFeO/NiFeO crystallite size and associated strain is calculated using Williamson-Hall plot. The effect of LiNiFeO on the electrical and dielectric properties of the composite samples are analyzed using AC-impedance spectroscopy. The prepared composite materials exhibit mixed electrical conduction behavior, and the conduction is due to lithium ion migration as well as electron hopping between Fe and Fe ions in the spinel structure. The conductivity gradually increases and attains maximum upon lithium ion inclusion in the composite. The further increment of lithium ion doping decreases the conductivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]