Synthesis of Magnetic Nanoparticle/Polymer Matrix Nanocomposites with Induced Magnetic Performance

In this work magnetic nanoparticles (Fe₃O₄, or ZnFe₂O₄, or SrFe₁₂O₁₉) and BaTiO₃ microparticles were embedded in an epoxy resin for the synthesis of three series of hybrid magnetic polymer nanocomposites. Barium titanate content was kept constant, while magnetic phase content was varied. Fabricated specimens were structurally and morphologically characterized by employing scanning electron microscopy images and X-ray diffraction patterns. Results implied successful synthesis of the hybrid nanocomposites. The magnetic behavior of the pure magnetic nanoparticles and the fabricated nanocomposites was investigated via a Vibrating Sample Magnetometer. The magnetic performance of each type of magnetic phase (i.e., soft and hard) was induced in the nanocomposites, and magnetic performance is strengthened with the increase in magnetic phase content. Initial magnetization curves were used for the determination of mass magnetic susceptibility of all nanocomposites. Magnetic saturation and magnetic remanence have been found to follow a linear relationship with magnetic phase content, giving the opportunity to predict the system's response in advance.