Fabrication of CuO nanoparticles for structural, optical and dielectric analysis using chemical precipitation method

Abstract

A simple and cost-effective route was used in the synthesis of CuO nanoparticles and it was aided by the chemical precipitation method. From XRD investigations the grain size was determined to be ≈14 nm. FTIR and FT-Raman was used to verify the various functional groups of CuO nanoparticles. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and EDS spectroscopy was utilized to study the surface morphology and elementary compostion. The particle size of the CuO nanoparticles was estimated using transmission electron microscopy. The SAED pattern of CuO nanaoparticles confirmed it’s polycrytalline nature. Random distribution of grains in the CuO nanoparticles was exemplified by the SEM images. UV–Visible absorption spectrum was used to study the optical properties. The optical band gap energy of CuO nanoparticle was evaluated to be 2.85 eV. Detailed investigation and analysis of the dielectric constant, dielectric loss and AC conductivities was performed. Beside simplicity, the results show the reliability and cost efficiency of the aqueous precipitation technique for the development of CuO-NP’s that can be utilized for potential application, provided it’s loss can be reduced.