One-step synthesis of Ni0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 fine-patterned films via photosensitive sol–gel route

Ni1−xZnxFe2O4 (NZFO) (x=0.0–0.7) films were prepared by a photosensitive sol–gel route utilizing nickel acetate, zinc acetate and ferric nitrate as starting materials. The saturation magnetization of the NZFO film showed a parabolic tendency with Zn substitution. For Zn substitution of 0.5, the saturation magnetization reached the maximum value of 683 emu/cm3 with a relative low coercivity of 56 Oe at room temperature. The phase constituents and surface morphology of the films were characterized by X-ray diffractometer (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Through a direct patterning process, a fine-patterned Ni0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 film was obtained by a photochemical reaction between the chelated complexes and UV light.