  We present a simple, scalable synthesis route for producing exchange coupled
soft/hard magnetic composite powder that outperforms pure soft and hard phase
constituents. Importantly, the composites is iron oxide based (SrFe12O19 and
Fe3O4) and contain no rare earth or precious metal. The two step synthesis
process consists of first precipitating, an Iron oxide/hydroxide precursor
directly on top of SrFe12O19 nano-flakes, ensuring a very fine degree of mixing
between the hard and the soft magnetic phases. We then use a second step that
serves to reduce the precursor to create the proper soft magnetic phase and
create the intimate interface necessary for exchange coupling. We establish a
clear processing window; at temperatures below this window the desired soft
phase is not produced, while higher temperatures result in deleterious reaction
at the soft/hard phase interfaces, causing an improper ratio of soft to hard
phases. Improvements of Mr, Ms, and (BH)max are 42%, 29% and 37% respectively
in the SrFe12O19/Fe3O4 composite compared to pure hard phase (SrFe12O19). We
provide evidence of coupling (exchange spring behavior) with hysteresis curves,
first order reversal curve (FORC) analysis and recoil measurements.
