Crystal Structural Characteristics and Electrical Properties of Novel Sol-Gel Synthesis of Ceramic Bi0.75Ba0.25(FeMn)0.5O3

Materials (Basel). 2024 Aug 1;17(15):3797. doi: 10.3390/ma17153797.

Abstract

In this investigation, our primary objective is to explore the structural, morphological, and electrical characteristics of Bi0.75Ba0.25(FeMn)0.5O3 ceramic material synthesized by the sol-gel method. The prepared sample underwent synthesis through the conventional sol-gel technique. Examination through X-ray diffraction (XRD) unveiled a well-defined rhombohedral structure within the R3´C space group. Moreover, to evaluate the purity and nano-grain morphology, we utilized energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDX) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Electrical assessments were carried out over a frequency span of 100 Hz to 1 MHz and temperatures ranging from 200 to 340 K. Employing the correlated barrier hopping (CBH) model, we analyzed the AC conductivity of our specimen. The activation energy, determined from both DC conductivity and impedance spectra, demonstrated close correspondence, suggesting that both conductivity and r laxation processes are influenced by similar factors. Notably, the dielectric properties hold significant importance, potentially rendering our sample suitable for electronic applications. Furthermore, we calculated thermodynamic parameters, such as enthalpy (ΔH), entropy change (ΔS), and free energy of activation (ΔF), offering deeper insights into the material's behavior and conductivity mechanisms.

Keywords: X-ray diffraction; conductivity; dielectric; impedance; perovskite; sol-gel route.

Grants and funding

This research was funded by to the Deanship of Graduate Studies and Scientific Research at Najran University, under the Growth Funding Program grant code (NU/GP/SERK/13/158-1).