Abstract
We show that antiferromagnetic nanoparticles of alpha-Fe2O3 (hematite) under wet conditions can attach into chains along a common [001] axis. Electron microscopy shows that such chains typically consist of two to five particles. X-ray and neutron diffraction studies show that both structural and magnetic correlations exist across the interfaces along the [001] direction. This gives direct evidence for exchange coupling between particles. Exchange coupling between nanoparticles can suppress superparamagnetic relaxation and it may play a role for attachment along preferred directions. The relations between exchange coupling, magnetic properties, and oriented attachment are discussed.
Original language | English |
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Journal | Physical Review B Condensed Matter |
Volume | 72 |
Issue number | 21 |
Pages (from-to) | 214406 |
Number of pages | 7 |
ISSN | 0163-1829 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2005 |