Abstract
ZnO thin films, showing nano-ridges at the surface and the top layer embedded with metal (Ag/Au) nanoparticles (MNP), were obtained by sol-gel synthesis, using zinc acetate dihydrate [(CH3.COO)2Zn.2H2O] as precursor. The method involved prior synthesis of Ag and Au nanoparticles via biological reduction of AgNO3 and HAuCl4, respectively, using algae Spirulina platensis. The XRD analysis indicated dominant evolution of wurtzite ZnO phase. Low-angle shift in peaks, seen with nanoparticles embedded films, indicated partial diffusion of metals into ZnO lattice. Band gap energy was least affected and lied in the expected range. AFM and SEM analysis revealed the surface topography and morphology, while EDX analysis confirmed the elemental stoichiometry and existence of Ag/Au nanoparticles in samples. Significant gain in photoelectrochemical current using MNP embedded films is largely accountable to the improvement in electrical conductance and the role played by metal nanoparticles in charge-carrier separation, collection and transport.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
