TECHNIQUES
Structural characterization
Qualitative and quantitative determination of composition, crystal structure analysis and estimation of ions distribution are performed by means of X-ray powder diffraction and Rietveld refinement technique. Additional structural investigations are supported by recently installed Raman Spectrometer.
Electrical and magnetic characterization
Extended characterization of typical ferrite ring cores, including inductance, magnetic permeability, power loss density, saturation induction and electrical resistivity at temperatures up to 300°C and frequencies up to 3 MHz. Complex permeability measurements are conducted up to 1 GHz.
Mechanical analysis
A testing equipment which is able to record the compaction process continuously gives information for the compaction behavior of the ferrite powder. The compacted specimen is then subjected to axial crushing, which indicates its strength.
Microscopy
Structural, microstructural and morphological features along with chemical analysis of powders and bulk samples are derived by optical, Scanning and Transmission Electron Microscopy (SEM and TEM), also using energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS microanalysis).
Thermal analysis
Thermal analysis is performed by thermogravimetric measurements (TGA) which is additionally accompanied by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (TGA–DSC). Dilatometry analysis is also carried out in order to determine the sintering parameters.
Morphological characterization
Complete morphological characterization of powders and bulk samples can be performed. The pore size distribution is measured by the N2 adsorption-desorption technique using a BET equipment, the particle size distribution is defined with laser diffraction method and the skeletal density is determined with Helium density.