Impedance spectral studies of sol-gel alumina-silver nanocomposites

The nanocomposite of alumina and silver in different weight percentages (0, 1, 5 and 20%) were prepared through solution sol-gel technique. The densities of the sintered pellets were determined employing Archimedes' principle. The microstructural features of the nanocomposites were followed by scanning and transmission electron microscopic observations. The ac electrical response of the consolidated Al2O3-Ag nanocomposite samples was studied using impedance spectroscopy. The equivalent parameters were determined using computer simulation of the experimental data. The observed results were interpreted using the physical model and equivalent circuit. The impedance spectral analysis gives the information of the two distinct phases, including the adsorbed moisture content in the nanocomposite. (C) 2003 Published by Elsevier Science Ltd on behalf of Acta Materialia Inc.