Functional Properties of SrTi\(_{1-x}\)Fe\(_x\)O\(_3\) Dielectric Ceramics

This study focuses on the solid-state processing optimization of SrTi\(_{1-x}\)Fe\(_x\)O\(_3\) (STFO) ceramics with \(0.00 \leq x \leq 0.11\). X-ray diffraction reveals a single-phase cubic structure (space group Pm\(\bar{3}m\)) with lattice constant \(a = b = c = 3.91{Å}\) and a maximum relative density of \(\sim\)94%. SEM confirms well-formed grains in both pure and Fe\(^{3+}\)-doped SrTiO\(_3\). TGA/DSC indicates low weight loss and high thermal stability for the \(x = 0.09\) composition. Electrical conductivity increases with frequency, accompanied by higher dielectric losses for \(x = 0.09\) and \(x = 0.11\). FTIR verifies the Ti-O octahedral stretching frequency at \SI{530}{\cm^{-1}}, consistent with the cubic perovskite structure. The maximum Seebeck coefficient is observed at \(x = 0.09\), aligning with electrical data and confirming semiconducting behavior. Notably, calcined powders exhibit soft ferromagnetic loops, whereas sintered solids display antiferromagnetic loops, revealing intriguing magnetic properties. Overall, the optimized \(x = 0.09\) composition shows significant promise for applications requiring enhanced electrical and magnetic characteristics.