Tuning magnetostrictive strain sensitivity through controlled spin–orbit and superexchange interactions: nonmagnetic Zn and Mg cation substitution in CoFe 2 O 4

Substituting Zn at tetrahedral ( T d ) site of CoFe 2 O 4 leads to migration of Co 2+ from octahedral ( O h ) to T d sites, which reduces spin–orbit interaction, but enhances soft magnetic nature and strain sensitivity, which isn’t the case for Mg substitution.