Structural and dielectric properties of Zn-doped MgAl2O4

MgAl2O4 based spinels exhibit fascinating microwave dielectric characteristics. However, the phase pure synthesis of these compounds usually requires a high processing temperature. Here, we report relatively low temperature synthesis of MgAl2O4 ceramics by sol-gel based microwave assisted combustion process. Zn was substituted at Mg site in order to systematically investigate its effect on the structural and dielectric statistics. X-ray diffraction was utilized to confirm the crystal structure and to evaluate the structural parameters. Surface morphology was determined by using a scanning electron microscope. The effects of Zn substitution at Mg-site on frequency dependent dielectric constant and tangent loss have been reported in detail.