Microwave processed bulk and nano NiMg ferrites: A comparative study on X-band electromagnetic interference shielding properties

Bulk and nano Ni_1-xMg_xFe₂O₄ (x = 0–1) samples were synthesized via microwave double sintering and microwave assisted hydrothermal techniques respectively. The diffraction pattern confirmed the formation of cubic spinel phases in case of both the ferrites. The larger bulk densities were achieved to the bulk than that of nano. In addition, a comparative study on X-band (8.4–12 GHz) electromagnetic interference shielding properties of current bulk and nanomaterials was elucidated. The results showed that the bulk Ni_0.6Mg_0.4Fe₂O₄ composition revealed the highest total shielding efficiency (SE_T) of ∼17 dB. In comparison, the shielding efficiency values of all bulk contents were higher than that of nano because of larger bulk densities. Moreover, the ac-electromagnetic parameters such as electrical conductivity (σ_ac), the respective real (ε′ & μ′) and imaginary parts (ε″ & μ″) of complex permittivity and permeability were investigated as a function of gigahertz frequency. The bulk ferrites of x = 0.4 & 0.6 showed the high ε″ of 10.26 & 6.71 and μ″ of 3.65 & 3.09 respectively at 12 GHz which can work as promising microwave absorber materials. Interestingly, nanoferrites exhibited negative μ″ values at few frequencies due to geometrical effects which improves the microwave absorption. - Highlights: • Bulk and nano NiMg ferrites are prepared by microwave and hydrothermal method. • X-band EMI shielding properties are studied for both bulk and nano ferrites. • Bulk Ni_0.6Mg_0.4Fe₂O₄ revealed the highest SE_T of ∼17 dB at 8.4 GHz. • Bulk x = 0.4 & 0.6 showed the high ε″ and μ″ at 12 GHz for absorber applications.