Synthesis, characterization and electrical properties of the nanosized perovskite LaFeO$_3$

Single-phase highly crystalline LaFeO$_3$ is synthesized by autocombustion of the gel complex obtained from citrate and metal nitrate precursors. The XRD analysis exhibited the transformation of amorphous phases of La$_2$O$_3$ and Fe$_2$O$_3$ into highly crystalline LaFeO$_3$ at 1000$^\circ$C. The agglomerated semi spherical morphology is observed. The average particle size of sintered pellets at 1000$^\circ$C for 4 h, 8, 12, and 16 h heating time is found 105, 130, 160 and 200 nm, respectively. TGA analysis revealed 27% weight lost due to the decomposition of La(OH)$_3$ and Fe(OH)$_3$ into La$_2$O$_3$, Fe$_2$O$_3$, and LaFeO$_3$. Electrical properties of LaFeO$_3$ were found to be dependent on micro-structural heterogeneities i.e., grain and grain boundaries. Two probe DC resistivity exhibited decrease in resistance with increasing heat treatment and time. The outcomes of this study confirmed the potential applications of perovskite-type LaFeO$_3$ in energy and environmental sectors.