Fabrication and electromagnetic properties of flake ferrite particles based on diatomite

Hexagonal ferrite BaZn_1.1Co_0.9Fe₁₆O ₂₇ coated surfaces of diatomite flakes of low density were synthesized by a solgel method. The phase structures, morphologies, particle size and chemical compositions of the composites were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The results show that hexagonal ferrite coated diatomite flakes can be achieved, and that the coating consisted of BaZn_1.1Co _0.9Fe₁₆O₂₇ nanoparticles. The vibranting sample magnetometer results reveal that the flake ferrite particles have static magnetic properties. The complex permeability and permittivity of the composites were measured in the frequency range of 118 GHz. The microwave absorption properties of these ferrite particles are discussed. The results indicate that the flake ferrites have the potential to be used as a lightweight broad band microwave absorber.