Abstract
In this work pure CuCr2O4 and Mn-doped CuCr2O4 nanoparticles were prepared using Microwave combustion process. The phase analysis of the prepared samples is investigated using X-Ray Diffraction technique and an decrease in particle size observed from similar to 37 to similar to 26 nm with rise in Mn doping concentration. Further optical data revealed the presence of multiple Mn-related optical centres. Morphological studies revealed the prepared samples exhibited irregular plate-shaped agglomerates. Furthermore, the antibacterial performance of undoped CuCr2O4 and Mn-doped CuCr2O4 samples are investigated. At 500 degrees C, the electrical conductivity for the CuCr2O4 and Mn-doped CuCr2O4 samples were found to be 0.98 x 10(-2) S/cm and 2.13 x 10(-2) S/cm respectively. The activation energy of the pristine CuCr2O4 and Mn-doped CuCr2O4 samples was found to be 0.87 eV and 0.69 eV respectively.