Synthesis and characterization of phase-stabilized Gd₂FeMnO₆ double-Perovskite compound

In the recent past, a series of double-perovskite compounds with the molecular formula of A₂BB'O₆ have gained keen interest among other inorganic compounds. It is due to the fact that the exhibition of large variety of physical properties pertaining to the elements accommodated at A, B and B' sites. In connection to the preparation of Gd₂FeMnO₆, a novel single-phased double perovskite compound has been carried out using conventional solid-state reaction route. Rietveld refinement of powder XRD patterns reveals that the compound crystallizes in orthorhombic crystal structure with a space group Pbnm. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis confirms the presence of Mn and Fe ions in +3 oxidation state. The field emission scanning electron micrograph reveals the granular growth morphology, having grains with irregular shape with the average grain size of about 5–10 µm. Room-temperature magnetization measurement reveals the dominant antiferromagnetic behaviour with weak ferromagnetic interactions. Deconvoluted Raman spectra using Lorentzian function confirm the first and second orders of Raman modes of the prepared compound. The activation energy value of E_a = 0.16 eV obtained from the Arrhenius plot indicates the dielectric stability of the material. The photoluminescence study shows the excitation by the light from ultraviolet region (350 to 450 nm), exhibiting blue (355 nm) to ⁸S_7/2 → ⁶P_3/2 transition, which may provide new applications in the field of modern electronics.