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Tunable Electrical Properties of Cobalt-Doped Maghemite Nanoparticles for Advanced Resistive and Thermistor
Mokhtar Hjiri1, Sonia Soltani2, Anouar Jbeli3
1Department of Physics, College of Sciences, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh 11623, Saudi Arabia.
Abstract:
Maghemite (γ-Fe2O3) nanoparticles have attracted considerable interest for electronic applications due to their tunable electrical properties. Doping strategies offer an effective way to optimize their resistive behavior for use in electronic devices. In this study, cobalt (Co) was incorporated into γ-Fe2O3 to enhance its resistive properties. X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed the retention of the cubic P4332 phase, with Co doping inducing subtle lattice distortions due to ionic substitution. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM/TEM) revealed morphological changes, where Co incorporation influenced particle shape and size distribution. Electrical conductivity analysis demonstrated a decrease in both AC and DC conductivity with the increase in Co content, indicating enhanced resistive behavior. The increase in activation energy suggests a reduction in charge carrier mobility, leading to higher resistivity. Impedance spectroscopy further confirmed increased real and imaginary impedance values, reinforcing the role of Co in suppressing charge transport. These results position cobalt-doped maghemite as a promising material for electronic resistive devices, such as tunable resistors and negative temperature coefficient (NTC) thermistors, where controlled conductivity and stable resistive behavior are essential.
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