Role of the amorphous SiO2/C matrix on the anomalous saturation magnetization of Ni nanoparticles

Ni nanoparticles (NPs) with a mean diameter ∼5 nm, embedded in an amorphous SiO2 and C matrix (SiO2/C) were produced through a modified sol–gel method. Magnetization measurements at temperatures ranging from 2 to 350 K and under an applied magnetic field of 70 kOe showed two different temperature regimes: (i) for temperatures from 2 to 100 K, where an exponential-like decrease in the temperature dependence of the saturation magnetization MS(T) is observed; and (ii) a slower decrease in MS(T) with increasing T above 100 K, attributed to spin waves, and obeying the predictions of the Bloch’s law. Fittings performed to the data adding appropriate terms to the Bloch’s law indicated that the low temperature behavior of MS(T) can be satisfactorily explained as the result of magnetic contributions from the amorphous SiO2/C matrix and from the surface of the NPs. The high temperature behavior of MS(T) follows the Bloch’s law with an exponent α= 3/2 and an increased B value, compared to the Ni bulk. •Diluted Ni NPs (∼5 nm) in amorphous SiO2/C synthesized via modified sol–gel method.•An anomalous, exponential-like increase in MS(T) below 100 K for all samples.•MS(T) analysis conducted by adding appropriate terms to the Bloch’s law.•Exponential increase in MS(T) attributed to NP surface and amorphous SiO2/C matrix.•High-TMS(T) follows Bloch’s law with α=3/2 and increased B value.