Microwave Synthesis of Co, Ni, Cu, Zn Ferrites

Abstract

Solid-phase synthesis of cobalt, nickel, copper, and zinc ferrites with spinel structure was performed from oxides of these metals and natural magnetite under the action of microwave radiation. The optimal conditions in which the corresponding ferrites can be formed were determined by varying the irradiation parameters affecting the reaction (magnetron power and reaction duration). It was found that the solid-phase interaction of oxides of Ni, Zn, Cu, Co(II) metals gives in practically acceptable yields metal-substituted ferrospinels (NiFe₂O₄, CoFe₂O₄, ZnFe₂O₄, CuFe₂O₄) constituting the main phase of the samples. A high capacity of the precursors and target synthesis products for absorption of the microwave radiation energy at a frequency of 2.45 GHz and its transformation into heat was demonstrated. This gives reason to use these compounds when preparing catalysts for microwave-stimulated reactions.