Development of a hybrid material based on Zn-Mg spinel ferrites covered with polypyrrole: structural, morphological, and electrical characteristics

Abstract

In this study, we synthesized a range of spinel ferrite ZnxMg1-xFe2O4 (x = 0, 0.3) forms using the sol-gel method. Additionally, polypyrrole nanosphere supported by magnesium and zinc ferrites (ZnxMg1-xFe2O4@PPy) were synthesized through in-situ polymerisation. The surfaces of ZnxMg1-xFe2O4 (x = 0, 0.3) and ZnxMg1-xFe2O4@PPy were subjected to spectroscopic analysis. The data obtained from X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed the formation of Zn-Mg spinel ferrite. The electrochemical analysis results demonstrated that the Zn0.3Mg0.7Fe2O4@PPy nanocomposites exhibited enhanced redox activity and a higher current intensity. This study highlights the development of hybrid Zn0.3Mg0.7Fe2O4@PPy type nanospheres with substantial and effective electrochemical properties, which could be a suitable option for industrial applications.