Investigation of electrochemical performance, optical and magnetic properties of NiFe2O4 nanoparticles prepared by a green chemistry method

Green chemistry methods for synthesising metal oxides nanoparticles (NPs) have been extensively used due to their tremendous and remarkable advantages such as easy preparation, reliable results, non toxicity, low cost and eco-friendly. Based on these advantages we have applied a green chemistry method for synthesising Nickel Ferrite (NiFe2O4) NPs mediated plant extract from Persa Americano seeds. XRD pattern confirmed the spinel phase structure of the synthesised NiFe2O4 NPs. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy showed the chemical bonds of the sample are consistent with the bonds assigned to NiFe2O4 NPs. Morphological studies revealed the cubic shapes for some of the particles with average sizes range from 15nm to 20nm and irregular shapes for the others. The optical properties were studied using UV–Vis spectrophotometer and the obtained results indicated that NiFe2O4 NPs exhibit a strong absorption behaviour in the UV range with a maximum peak at 250nm. The optical band gap calculated based on UV–Vis result was 4.25 eV. Photoluminescence (PL) spectrum of NiFe2O4 NPs revealed two emission peaks, one in the UV region centred at 379nm and another a broad peak in nearly visible region (Blue emission) centred at 450nm. Magnetic studies showed a decrease in saturation magnetization Ms of NiFe2O4 NPs compared to their bulk system which is attributed to surface spin disorder. Finally, NiFe2O4 NPs exhibited excellent electrochemical properties which can be ascribed to: this compound possess two electrochemical active components and / or the nanocube structure of the particles which can further improve the electrochemistry through the feasible oxidation states and the synergetic effect.