Temperature-controlled morphology and enhanced functionalities of hydrothermally synthesized SrFe2O4 nanostructures for multifaceted applications

In this study, we investigate the effect of synthesis temperature on the morphology and properties of spinel strontium ferrite (SrFe2O4) nanostructures, synthesized using a surfactant-free hydrothermal method. We demonstrate that by varying the temperature from 85 °C to 160 °C, we can control the morphology of SrFe2O4, transitioning from nanoribbons to dendritic structures, and finally to hexagonal nanoplatelets. These morphological changes correspond to significant enhancements in both magnetic and photocatalytic performance. The saturation magnetization (Ms) notably increases by up to 70 % at higher synthesis temperatures. Additionally, these nanostructures show improved efficiency in photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue dye, indicating their potential for environmental remediation. The dielectric properties of the various morphologies were also characterized, suggesting applications in electronics and energy storage. This study establishes a clear link between synthesis conditions, resulting structures, and functional performance in SrFe2O4 nanostructures, contributing to the development of advanced materials. [Display omitted]