Various criteria of formation of perovskites and K₂NiF₄-type compounds, which are the end members of homologous Ruddlesden-Popper series of phases, have been discussed. RP-phases show some general trends in their physical properties. Literature survey of the formation of these phases, their properties, and effect of oxygen stoichiometry and doping is presented. Some conditions for their synthesis are also described.

In the present study, we report the synthesis of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) using a new natural precursor: castor oil. The CNTs were synthesized by spray pyrolysis of castor oil–ferrocene solution at 850°C under an Ar atmosphere. We also report the synthesis of carbon nitrogen (C–N) nanotubes using castor oil–ferrocene–ammonia precursor. The as-grown CNTs and C–N nanotubes were characterized through scanning and transmission electron microscopic techniques. Graphitic nanofibres (GNFs) were synthesized by thermal decomposition of acetylene (C₂H₂) gas using Ni catalyst at 600°C. As-grown GNFs reveal both planar and helical morphology. We have investigated the structural and electrical properties of multi-walled CNTs (MWNTs)–polymer (polyacrylamide (PAM)) composites. The MWNTs–PAM composites were prepared using as purified, with ball milling and functionalized MWNTs by solution cast technique and characterized through SEM. A comparative study has been made on the electrical property of these MWNTs–PAM composites with different MWNTs loadings. It is shown that the ball milling and functionalization of MWNTs improves the dispersion of MWNTs into the polymer matrix. Enhanced electrical conductivity was observed for the MWNTs–PAM composites. Graphene samples were prepared by thermal exfoliation of graphite oxide. XRD analysis confirms the formation of graphene.

The layered perovskite oxide, GdSr₂MnCrO₇, has been prepared by the standard ceramic method. The powder X-ray diffraction studies suggest that the phase crystallizes with tetragonal unit cell in the space group 𝐼4/𝑚𝑚𝑚. The electrical transport properties show that the phase is an electrical insulator and the electrical conduction in the phase occurs by a 3D variable range hopping mechanism. The magnetic properties suggest that the ferromagnetic interactions are dominant in the high temperature region.