La3+ and Ce3+ Doping of Hard-Magnetic Ferrites

Rare-earth-doped ferrites with the general formula M_{1 – x}R_x · nFe₂O₃ (M = Ba, Sr, Pb; R = La, Ce; x = 0–0.1; n = 4–6) are prepared by solid-state combustion synthesis. The effects of the doping procedure (before or after combustion synthesis), dopant content, and heat-treatment conditions on the magnetic and mechanical properties of the ferrites are examined. The results indicate that doped materials can be used to fabricate permanent magnets with enhanced density, remanence, and energy product. In addition, rare-earth doping improves the strength of the ferrite materials, eliminating their main drawback—inherent brittleness.