P. Swetha
PG & Research Department of Physics, St. Joseph’s College of Arts and Science (Autonomous), Annamalai University, 607001, Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu, India.

R. Sagayaraj
PG & Research Department of Physics, St. Joseph’s College of Arts and Science (Autonomous), Annamalai University, 607001, Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu, India.

DOI https://doi.org/10.33889/PMSL.2026.5.1.005

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Abstract

Spinel ferrite materials, particularly spinel ferrites, have gained immense popularity due to their unique magnetic properties and versatility in modern technology. With the general formula AB2O4, where A and B are metal cations, these materials can be classified as soft or hard ferrites, each with distinct applications ranging from microwave components and inductors to permanent magnets and data storage. This review focuses on the synthesis and characterization of spinel ferrite nanoparticles. We examine various synthesis methods, including co-precipitation, sol-gel, hydrothermal, and combustion techniques, highlighting their respective advantages and disadvantages in terms of cost, particle size control, and purity. The review also details the use of advanced characterization techniques. X-ray Diffraction (XRD) is crucial for confirming crystal structure, phase purity, and determining crystallite size and lattice constants, while Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy identifies characteristic metal-oxygen bonds. Furthermore, Electron Microscopy (TEM and SEM) is used to analyse particle morphology, size, and agglomeration, and Vibrating Sample Magnetometry (VSM) is essential for evaluating key magnetic properties like saturation magnetization and coercivity. The review synthesizes findings from a wide range of studies, underscoring the critical relationship between synthesis parameters, doping, and the resulting structural and magnetic properties of these nanomaterials, which are key to their functional applications in fields like targeted drug delivery and magnetic resonance imaging.

Keywords- Spinel ferrite, Nanoparticles, Magnetic properties, VSM, XRD, Magnetic resonance imaging.

Citation

Swetha, P., & Sagayaraj, R. (2026). A Comprehensive Review on the Synthesis, Characterization, and Applications of Spinel Ferrite Nanoparticles. Prabha Materials Science Letters, (1), 74-102. https://doi.org/10.33889/PMSL.2026.5.1.005.