Structure and properties of La0·8Sr0·2FeO3 NC embedded glass-ceramics: XPS, EPR, XANES and Mössbauer studies

Abstract

In this investigation, perovskite La0·8Sr0·2FeO3 nanocrystals were cultivated within heavy metal oxide glass, utilizing Al2O3 tailoring. The study delves into the impact of La0·8Sr0·2FeO3 formation on both the glass structure and optical/magnetic properties. Employing diverse techniques such as x-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, x-ray photoelectron microscopy, electron paramagnetic resonance, nuclear magnetic resonance and Mössbauer spectra, we scrutinized these influences. The synthesis resulted in well-distributed, orthogonal La0·8Sr0·2FeO3 nanocrystals measuring 10-30 nm within the glass matrix. This crystallization induced alterations in the structure and coordination numbers of B2O3, Al2O3 and Bi2O3. Notably, the introduction of 10% Al2O3 in the glass manifested an abnormality effect, showcasing the highest transparency, the smallest La0·8Sr0·2FeO3 size (10 nm), and minimal nonbridging oxygen defects. Remarkably, the glass with 10% Al2O3 demonstrated an intriguing aluminium-induced effect, exhibiting the highest transparency, the smallest La0·8Sr0·2FeO3 size (10 nm), and the least nonbridging oxygen defects. Furthermore, this glass exhibited an enhanced electron paramagnetic resonance signal, the highest percentage (71%) of tetrahedral FeO4 units and an improved Mössbauer sextets intensity, making it particularly promising for applications in photonics devices.