Effect of sintering conditions on resistivity and dielectric properties of Ni-Zn ferrites

Resistivity and dielectric properties of the nickel-zinc ferrite composition, Ni0.65Zn0.35Fe2O4, have been studied near different sintering conditions to optimize the sintering schedule for a specific application. Variable sintering parameters in the study include sintering temperature in the range from 1150 to 1300°C and sintering time with 1 h, 2 h and 4 h durations at each sintering temperature. The results indicate that the decrease of resistivity is linear and less rapid upto a sintering schedule of 1250°C/2 h, and thereafter any increase either in sintering temperature or in sintering time causes a rapid decrease of resistivity due to the increased volatilization of zinc from the samples at these temperatures/times. Possible mechanisms contributing to conduction processes in ferrites are discussed in explaining the obtained results.