One-dimensional BiFeO3 nanotubes: Preparation, characterization, improved magnetic behaviors, and prospects

Abstract With the progress of science and technology, the growing demands for practical applications make low-dimensional multiferroics more appealing in areas such as chemical and bio-sensors, nanoelectronic, high-density data storage devices. One-dimensional BiFeO 3 nanotubes were successfully synthesized by sol–gel-based electrospinning process. The images of scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy collectively demonstrate that BiFeO 3 nanotubes with long slender structure and virtually uniform diameter of approximately 100 nm were observed at 500 °C annealing temperature. By compared with BiFeO 3 bulks observed at 800 °C annealing temperature, enhanced room temperature ferromagnetism was successfully realized in BiFeO 3 nanotubes at room temperature. The results of electron spin resonance measurement further confirm that ferromagnetic resonances were detected in BiFeO 3 nanotubes at different temperature. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy study proves the existence of plentiful oxygen vacancies in BiFeO 3 nanotubes, which will play a key role in terms of enhanced ferromagnetism. The results will contribute to expand the applications of BiFeO 3 into the new field of spintronic devices and high-density data storage media.