Synthesis and characterization of sodium-doped zinc ferrite nanomaterials for enhanced ionic conduction and thermoelectrical applications

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In recent decades, sodium-ion batteries have garnered considerable interest as a cost-effective energy solution. This study focuses on the synthesis of Na[Formula: see text] ion nanomaterials of zinc ferrite, specifically (Na)ZnFe 2 O 4 , using the co-precipitation method. Brown-colored pelleted nanomaterial precipitate samples are utilized to investigate electrical and thermoelectrical characteristics. The X-ray diffraction technique is employed to investigate the structural properties of sodium-containing (Na)ZnFe 2 O 4 nanomaterials, which exhibit a crystalline nature. Conversely, nanomaterials that have been thoroughly washed and are devoid of Na[Formula: see text] ions exhibit an amorphous nature. The newly obtained (Na)ZnFe 2 O 4 samples exhibit a significant concentration of Na[Formula: see text] ions, ranging from 65 to 70[Formula: see text]ppm. Moreover, the conduction properties of these samples fall within the semi-conduction range. Under constant stress of 12V, the current decreased from 4 to 2[Formula: see text]mA over a period of 85[Formula: see text]min and eventually reached 1[Formula: see text]mA after 305[Formula: see text]min. The decay attribute of (Na)ZnFe 2 O 4 nanomaterials is associated with the migration of Na[Formula: see text] ions within the ZnFe 2 O 4 matrix, which is crucial for the ionic conduction process and in thermopower measurements. Two positive peaks indicate the transportation of p-type charge carriers, specifically Na[Formula: see text] ions. Nanomaterials show potential for applications in supercapacitors, ionic conductors and rechargeable solid-state batteries, especially in thermopower. These materials can play a key role in green energy applications for energy harvesting and can be used in the education sector.