Influence of the Interface on the Photoluminescence Properties in ZnO Carbon-Based Nanohybrids

Abstract

We report on the synthesis of free-standing ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) and ZnO NPs-decorated multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) via nonhydrolytic sol–gel (NHSG) routes. The role of the hydrates in the zinc precursor on the structure and surface termination of ZnO NPs via NHSG routes has already been reported in our earlier study. In the present work, the synthesis has been carried out in ambient air without using a glovebox, whereupon the effects of the synthesis temperature have been studied systematically. The structure, morphology, and optical properties of the free-standing ZnO-NPs are compared with those of the carbon nanotube-based nanocomposites, ZnO:MWCNTs, synthesized under identical conditions. The observed efficient and broad luminescence covering the entire visible spectrum points toward the high potential of the hybrid nanocomposites in optoelectronic and photovoltaic applications.