Precursor Molar Research Articles

Advanced nano-composite coatings of ZrB₂/ZrC/SiC on carbon fibers via eco-friendly precursor synthesis

This study presents a comprehensive investigation into the synthesis and characterization of ZrB2/ZrC/SiC composite coatings on carbon fiber substrates via a solution-based process followed by high-temperature pyrolysis. The precursor solution was prepared using Gum Ghatti (GG), zirconyl chloride, tetraethyl orthosilicate, and boric acid. Optimization of precursor concentration and molar ratios was performed to achieve suitable viscosity and composition. The pyrolysis process was conducted in an argon atmosphere, resulting in the formation of well-defined ZrB2, ZrC, and SiC phases. XRD analysis confirmed the phase composition, while SEM imaging revealed spheroidal particle aggregates with a uniform distribution of composite phases. TG-DTA analysis reveals the thermal decomposition behavior, highlighting distinct stages of mass loss and phase transformations. Coated carbon fibers exhibited enhanced oxidation resistance, as evidenced by TGA analysis. SEM analysis confirmed the uniform distribution and adhesion of the composite matrix on the carbon fiber substrate. This study demonstrates the successful synthesis of ZrB2/ZrC/SiC composite coatings with promising thermal properties for advanced applications.

Mechanical Properties of Epoxy Networks with Metal Coordination Bonds: Insights from Temperature and Molar Mass Variation.

We investigate the thermal and mechanical properties of poly(ethylene glycol), PEG, networks with either solely covalent epoxy bonds (single networks, SNs) or coexisting epoxy and iron-catecholate bonds (dual networks, DNs). The latter has recently been shown to be a promising material that combines mechanical strength with significant deformability. Here, we address the previously unexplored effects of the temperature and PEG precursor molar mass on the mechanical properties of the networks. We focus on PEG molar masses of 500 g/mol, where crystallization is suppressed, and 1000 g/mol, where some weak crystals are formed. SNs soften with an increasing PEG molar mass. Heating reversibly softens the DN, but it has a minimal effect on SNs. Nonlinear shear deformation of the DN breaks iron-catecholate bonds, and subsequent recovery upon shear cessation occurs to a long-time steady-state modulus whose value is almost triple the original one, likely due to the formation of tris-complexes versus initial sterically or kinetically trapped bis-complexation. The response under elongation indicates that the DN with sacrificial bonds is stiffer and more extensible than the other networks. These results may provide guidelines for designing dual networks with tunable mechanics at the molecular level.

X-ray characterization, structural analysis, antibacterial activity, and self-cleaning property of Cu-doped TiO2-SiO2 nanocomposite prepared by sonochemical process

TiO2-SiO2 nanocomposites with different copper (Cu) precursor loadings were prepared by a one-step sonochemical process. The mole ratio of Cu precursor in TiO2-SiO2 composite was varied at 0.004, 0.008, 0.020, and 0.040, respectively. The specific X-ray characterization techniques on crystalline structure, chemical composition, and chemical states of Cu-doped TiO2-SiO2 composite were carried out by X-ray diffraction technique (XRD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), respectively. Surface morphology and chemical bonding of Cu-doped TiO2-SiO2 composite were monitored by field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer (FTIR). For antibacterial properties, the inhibition zone of antimicrobial activity was investigated by varying amounts of Cu precursors in the TiO2-SiO2 composite. After that, Cu-doped TiO2-SiO2 composite powder with different Cu precursor ratios was mixed in PMMA solution and deposited on glass slides to study the optical property and hydrophilicity by UV-VIS-NIR spectrophotometer and contact angle method. XRD patterns of Cu-doped TiO2-SiO2 nanocomposites show the formation of the main TiO2 anatase phase with the ultrafine particles observed by FE-SEM images. FT-IR spectra of the composites are assigned to the prominent peaks of the Ti-O-Ti and Ti-O-Si bond relating to the TiO2-SiO2 host matrix. Meanwhile, TiO2-SiO2 composites with Cu precursor at 0.004 mol ratio can significantly enhance the antibacterial activity with a large inhibition zone. The contact angle value of Cu-doped TiO2-SiO2 nanocomposite film at 0.040 Cu precursor mole ratio in the TiO2-SiO2 matrix resulted in the optimized composite ratio for achieving a hydrophilic surface on the substrate.

Spinel nickel ferrite (NiFe2O4) materials synthesized via spray-pyrolysis for electrochemical supercapacitor application

To explore potential applications of NiFe2O4-based supercapacitors in various energy storage systems, including portable electronic devices, electric vehicles, and grid energy storage, highlighting the advantages and challenges of using NiFe2O4 in these applications. To identify and propose future research directions for further improving the performance of NiFe2O4 supercapacitors. In the study focuses on optimizing concentration of synthesis to achieve desirable structural and electrochemical properties, characterizing the synthesized materials, and assessing their specific capacitance, energy density, power density, cycle stability, and rate capability. The different molar precursor solutions were utilized for the formation of NiFe2O4 thin films by using the cost-effective spray pyrolysis technique. The impact of different molarities on the structural, morphological, elemental, optical, and charge storage performance of NiFe2O4 thin films has been studied. In the XRD studies identified the cubic crystalline structure with Fd-3 m space group symmetry of NiFe2O4. The FE-SEM shows the grain-like surface morphology of NiFe2O4 thin films. The EDAX study reveals that NiFe2O4 thin films were stoichiometric. Bandgap energy values of the thin films were observed in the range of 1.97 to 2.2 eV with allowed direct band gap transitions. The maximum specific capacitance for NiFe2O4 thin film was found to be 707 Fg−1 at 2 mVs−1 with the wider potential window of − 0.8 to + 1 .6 V in 1 M KOH aqueous electrolyte. GCD study confirms the pseudocapacitive behavior of NiFe2O4 thin films. The maximum specific energy and specific power were found to be 83.88 WhKg−1 and 5.294 KWkg−1 at a current density of 0.002 Ag−1. Such as spinel ferrite NiFe2O4 thin film electrodes as an excellent candidate material for electrochemical supercapacitor applications.

INFLUENCE OF PRECURSOR MOLARITY AND LEAF EXTRACT CONCENTRATION ON PHYSICAL PROPERTIES OF ZINC OXIDE (ZnO) NANOPARTICLES SYNTHESIZED USING MORINGA OLEIFERA LEAF EXTRACT

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) exhibit optical, electrical, and magnetic properties depending on their size and morphology. These properties are essential for using ZnONPs in various fields such as cosmetics, electronics and medicine. The properties and applications of ZnONPs depend on how they are synthesized, whether physical, chemical, or biological. This study aimed to produce ZnONPs by utilizing the leaf extract of Moringa oleifera and to study the effect of precursor molarity and leaf extract concentration on physical properties. The precipitated compound was characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis), and Scanning Electron Microscopy-Energy Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDAX). Here, we prepared ZnONPs under four different molarity (0.2[Formula: see text]M, 0.3[Formula: see text]M 0.4[Formula: see text]M, and 0.5[Formula: see text]M) and two different leaf extract concentrations (10[Formula: see text]ml, 15[Formula: see text]ml). We analyzed the difference obtained in the average particle size in each case. From the XRD the major diffraction peaks are observed at 36.3, 47.53, 36.33, and 36 for 0.2[Formula: see text]M, 0.3[Formula: see text]M, 0.4[Formula: see text]M, and 0.5[Formula: see text]M, respectively. The average particle size was found to be in the range of 12–30[Formula: see text]nm. UV study was used to inspect the optical nature of the prepared ZnONPs and SEM confirmed the sample’s morphology. Investigations on the role of precursor molarity and leaf extract concentration in synthesizing ZnONPs indicated that average particle size increases with increasing precursor molarity and leaf extract concentration. The study also suggested that synthesizing metal oxide nanoparticles using botanical extract is an eco-friendly alternative to physical and chemical methods.

Fabrication of plasmonic junction diodes based on Ag@ZnO core-shell nanostructures

In this study, Ag nanoparticles and Ag@ZnO core–shell nanostructures were prepared using the wet chemical method and these nanostructures were used for Ag@ZnO/p-Si diode fabrication. Structural, morphological, and optical characterization techniques were applied for Ag@ZnO core–shell NPs prepared by using different molarity of precursor ZnCl2 (10 mM, 20 mM, 30 mM) and showed that the effect of increasing precursor amount on these physical properties of nanoparticles is important. For Ag@ZnO, transmission electron microscopy shows an average diameter of Ag nanoparticles was 51.32 nm and Ag@ZnO core–shell nanostructures were found to be between 31 and 92 nm. The UV-visible absorbance also shows significant plasmonic resonance for NPs, with a slight red shift increasing precursor molarity. The peaks are found to be from 412 nm to 432 nm. This redshift in surface plasmon absorption of Ag@ZnO core–shell structures are consistent with XPS survey. The current–voltage (I-V) characteristic curves of heterojunction diodes were taken in the dark and at room temperature, and it was observed that they showed a rectifying feature. Ideality factor and barrier height values have been found between 2.14 and 3.87, and 0.56 and 0.78, respectively. The results revealed that Ag@ZnO was successfully synthesized and can be used in rectification applications.

Molten salt-shielded solid-state synthesis (MS5) reaction-driven >99% pure Ti3AlC2 MAX phase: effect of MAX phase purity on the interlayer separation of MXenes and Na-ion storage.

Ti3C2-X MXenes have attracted tremendous research interest because their 2D laminar morphology provides numerous functional applications. The application options rely on the purity and interlayer spacing of MXenes, which eventually depend on the purity of the MAX phase. This motivated us to synthesize pure MAX phases to produce MXenes at large scale using simpler and less expensive techniques. However, producing prerequisite pure MAX phases at atmospheric pressure and relatively lower temperatures is still a challenging task. This study reports the synthesis of thermally stable pure MAX phases (and MXenes) by systematically varying the molar ratio of the precursors, reaction temperature, and reaction time using a novel MS5 process under atmospheric pressure conditions. The purity of MAX phases under different synthesis conditions shows a direct interrelationship with the 2D laminar morphology of MXenes. The highest purity of >99% for the MAX phase was achieved by reacting Ti : Al : C precursors in a 3 : 1.5 : 1.9 molar ratio at 1350 °C for 90 min and delivered highly distinctive 2D nanostructured laminar MXenes with larger interlayer spacing and specific surface area (i.e., 8.8 ± 0.1 m2 g-1), which are superior to those in previously reported works. These results reveal that the precursor molar ratios and reaction conditions tailor the MAX phase purity, thereupon, they are crucial for achieving good quality 2D laminar MXenes with large specific surface areas, further enhancing the performance of MXene-related devices. The developed MS5-MXenes, when probed as electrodes for Na ion applications, show excellent initial and reversible capacity values of 142 mA h g-1 and 103 mA h g-1 (at 50 mA g-1), respectively.

On the structural and optical characterization of zinc aluminate nanoparticles synthesized via green microwave route

Zinc aluminate, a widely employed wide bandgap semiconductor, boasts exceptional mechanical and thermal properties, coupled with a high quantum yield. Its versatile applications include photocatalytic pollutant degradation, utilization in displays, and contributions to the medicinal field. However, challenges arise during synthesis processes, where high-temperature annealing reduces nanoparticle surface area, and cation contamination from precursors impacts material purity. In response to these challenges, green synthesis methods incorporating plant extracts as reductants have emerged to yield higher-quality phosphors. In this study, the focus is on microwave synthesis of Zinc Aluminate using Zinc Nitrate and Aluminum Nitrate in varying ratios as precursors. Comprehensive structural and optical characterizations, including X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy (DRS), and Photoluminescence Spectroscopy (PL), have been conducted to assess the influence of precursor molar ratios on the spinel growth and optimization of the synthesis process.

Synthesis of silver nanoparticles for use in conductive inks by chemical reduction method

In this study, the chemical reduction method was applied to synthesize silver nanoparticles used to prepare conductive inks. The two variables of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)-stabilized mole in the 0.01–0.03 mol range and hydrazine reducing mole in the 0.1–0.5 mol range, along with constants such as precursor mole (silver nitrate), complexing mole (ethylene diamine) and solvent mole (water), were used. Nine random samples proposed by the Design Expert software were examined and studied. X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS) were then used to characterize and evaluate the synthesized nanoparticles. According to the results obtained by XRD, FE-SEM and TEM analyses, the sample with 0.025 mol and 0.3 mol PVP had the minimum size of silver nanoparticles, which was around 20 nm, so it was chosen as the optimal sample for further research. The conductive ink was also prepared with the optimal sample of silver nanoparticles in 40% by weight and then characterized and evaluated by applying ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis), simultaneous thermal analysis (STA), FE-SEM and electrical conductivity analysis. Finally, conductive ink was applied to polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) substrates. The surface electrical resistance of conductive ink on PET and ABS substrates was then measured at about 6.4 Ω and 2.2 Ω, respectively.

Seedless hydrothermal growth of hexagonal prism ZnO for photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue: the effect of pH and post-annealing treatment

In this paper, we study the effect of solution pH in the hydrothermal synthesis and post-annealing treatment on the photocatalytic performance of hexagonal prism ZnO grown without a seed layer. By varying the precursor molarity ratio, the solution obtained was 6.88 (ZnO-2), 7.00 (ZnO-1), and 7.58 (ZnO-3). The three samples show hexagonal prism ZnO with wurtzite structures based on scanning electron microscope and x-ray diffraction analysis. ZnO-1 samples could degrade methylene blue as high as 65.9% for a UV irradiation time of 5 h, better than ZnO-2 (51.80%) and ZnO-3 (57.55%). Post-annealing treatment of ZnO-1 with the best photodegradation efficiency was carried out at 200 °C (ZnO-4) and 400 °C (ZnO-5) to alter the structure. The post-annealing treatment changes the domination of crystal orientation from (002) to (100) plane. Also, the morphology of ZnO-5 changed significantly to become smaller rods with a diameter of 2.79 μm, as compared to ZnO-1 (2.83 μm) and ZnO-4 (3.12 μm). It is due to ionic rearrangements occurring at higher temperatures. The ZnO-5 sample reduces methylene blue by 82.91%, which is better than ZnO-1 (65.9%) and ZnO-4 (64.39%). Interestingly, we found a relation between smaller rod diameters and higher photocatalytic activity. The results show the importance of the solution pH and the annealing treatment in improving the photocatalytic performance of hexagonal prism ZnO without the seed layer.

Al Incorporation up to 99% in Metalorganic Chemical Vapor Deposition‐Grown Monoclinic (AlxGa1–x)2O3 Films Using Trimethylgallium

Growths of monoclinic (AlxGa1−x)2O3 thin films up to 99% Al contents are demonstrated via metalorganic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) using trimethylgallium (TMGa) as the Ga precursor. The utilization of TMGa, rather than triethylgallium, enables a significant improvement of the growth rates (>2.5 μm h−1) of β‐(AlxGa1−x)2O3 thin films on (010), (100), and (01) β‐Ga2O3 substrates. By systematically tuning the precursor molar flow rates, growth of coherently strained phase pure β‐(AlxGa1−x)2O3 films is demonstrated by comprehensive material characterizations via high‐resolution X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and atomic‐resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) imaging. Monoclinic (AlxGa1−x)2O3 films with Al contents up to 99, 29, and 16% are achieved on (100), (010), and (01) β‐Ga2O3 substrates, respectively. Beyond 29% of Al incorporation, the (010) (AlxGa1−x)2O3 films exhibit β‐ to γ‐phase segregation. β‐(AlxGa1−x)2O3 films grown on (01) β‐Ga2O3 show local segregation of Al along (100) plane. Record‐high Al incorporations up to 99% in monoclinic (AlxGa1−x)2O3 grown on (100) Ga2O3 are confirmed from XRD, STEM, electron nanodiffraction, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurements. These results indicate great promises of MOCVD development of β‐(AlxGa1−x)2O3 films and heterostructures with high Al content and growth rates using TMGa for next‐generation high‐power and high‐frequency electronic devices.

Phase (1T/2H) dependent electromagnetic wave absorbing performance of flower-like MoS2 nanosheets

A study was carried out to determine the phase-dependent electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorption performance of MoS2 particles via systematically diversified hydrothermal synthesis conditions such as time, temperature, precursor molarity, and oxalic acid concentration. The formation of mixed-phase structure was verified depending on the presence of the characteristic diffraction peaks belong to 1T (trigonal, P3̅m1 space group) and 2H (hexagonal, P63/mmc space group) phases in the X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns. Phase-pure 2H-MoS2 was obtained at 200 °C after 12 h of reaction and using 5 mmol oxalic acid. Microscopic examinations indicate that MoS2 particles formed by assembling several nanosheets to create a flower-like morphology. The size, shape, and the distance between the nanosheets were observed to change with increasing temperature, time, and acid concentration. The band gap was found to be modified depending on the phase distribution and decreased from 1.54 eV (2H) to a minimum of 0.64 eV (1T/2H) with the formation of the 1T (metallic) phase. Finally, the minimum reflection loss was measured as − 67.73 dB (99.9999 % of absorption at 9.05 GHz) with an effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of 3.52 GHz for the sample composed of 1T/2H mixed-phased structure.

Influence of Humidity and Heating Rate on the Continuous ZIF Coating during Hydrothermal Growth.

Zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) have potential for various gas and ion separations due to their well-defined pore structure and relatively easy fabrication process compared to other metal-organic frameworks and zeolites. As a result, many reports have focused on preparing polycrystalline and continuous ZIF layers on porous supports with good separation performance in various target gases, such as hydrogen extraction and propane/propylene separation. To utilize the separation properties in industry, membrane is required to be prepared in large scale with high reproducibility. In this study, we investigated how humidity and chamber temperature influence the structure of a ZIF-8 layer prepared by the hydrothermal method. Many synthesis conditions can affect the morphology of polycrystalline ZIF membranes, and previous studies have mainly focused on reaction solutions, such as precursor molar ratio, concentration, temperature, and growth time. On the other hand, we found that the humidity of the chamber and the heating rate of the solution also lead to dramatic changes in the morphology of ZIF membranes. To analyze the trend between humidity and chamber temperature, we set up the chamber temperature (ranging from 50 °C to 70 °C) and relative humidity (ranging from 20% to 100%) using a thermo-hygrostat chamber. We found that as the chamber temperature increased, ZIF-8 preferentially grew into particles rather than forming a continuous polycrystalline layer. By measuring the temperature of the reacting solution based on chamber humidity, we discovered that the heating rate of the reacting solution varied with humidity, even at the same chamber temperature. At a higher humidity, the thermal energy transfer was accelerated as the water vapor delivered more energy to the reacting solution. Therefore, a continuous ZIF-8 layer could be formed more easily at low humidity ranges (ranging from 20% to 40%), while micron ZIF-8 particles were synthesized at a high heating rate. Similarly, under higher temperatures (above 50 °C), the thermal energy transfer was increased, leading to sporadic crystal growth. The observed results were obtained with a controlled molar ratio, in which zinc nitrate hexahydrate and 2-MIM were dissolved in DI water at a molar ratio of 1:45. While the results are limited to these specific growth conditions, our study suggests that controlling the heating rate of the reaction solution is critical for preparing a continuous and large-area ZIF-8 layer, particularly for the future scale-up of ZIF-8 membranes. Additionally, humidity is an important factor in forming the ZIF-8 layer, as the heating rate of the reaction solution can vary even at the same chamber temperature. Further research related to humidity will be necessary for the development of large-area ZIF-8 membranes.

Metalorganic chemical vapor deposition of β-(AlxGa1−x)2O3 thin films on (001) β-Ga2O3 substrates

Phase pure β-(AlxGa1−x)2O3 thin films are grown on (001) oriented β-Ga2O3 substrates via metalorganic chemical vapor deposition. By systematically tuning the precursor molar flow rates, the epitaxial growth of coherently strained β-(AlxGa1−x)2O3 films is demonstrated with up to 25% Al compositions as evaluated by high resolution x-ray diffraction. The asymmetrical reciprocal space mapping confirms the growth of coherent β-(AlxGa1−x)2O3 films (x < 25%) on (001) β-Ga2O3 substrates. However, the alloy inhomogeneity with local segregation of Al along the (2̄01) plane is observed from atomic resolution STEM imaging, resulting in wavy and inhomogeneous interfaces in the β-(AlxGa1−x)2O3/β-Ga2O3 superlattice structure. Room temperature Raman spectra of β-(AlxGa1−x)2O3 films show similar characteristics peaks as the (001) β-Ga2O3 substrate without obvious Raman shifts for films with different Al compositions. Atom probe tomography was used to investigate the atomic level structural chemistry with increasing Al content in the β-(AlxGa1−x)2O3 films. A monotonous increase in chemical heterogeneity is observed from the in-plane Al/Ga distributions, which was further confirmed via statistical frequency distribution analysis. Although the films exhibit alloy fluctuations, n-type doping demonstrates good electrical properties for films with various Al compositions. The determined valence and conduction band offsets at β-(AlxGa1−x)2O3/β-Ga2O3 heterojunctions using x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy reveal the formation of type-II (staggered) band alignment.

Incorporation of Novel Graphene Nanosheet Materials as Cathode Catalysts in Li–O2 Battery

Abstract This study reports the superior performance of graphene nanosheet (GNS) materials over Vulcan XC incorporated as a cathode catalyst in Li–O2 battery. The GNSs employed were synthesized from a novel, eco-friendly, and cost-effective technique involving chamber detonation of oxygen (O2) and acetylene (C2H2) precursors. Two GNS catalysts i.e., GNS-1 and GNS-2 fabricated with 0.3 and 0.5 O2/C2H2 precursor molar ratios, respectively, were utilized in this study. Specific surface area (SSA) analysis revealed significantly higher SSA and total pore volume for GNS-1 (180 m2 g−1, 0.505 cm3 g−1) as compared with GNS-2 (19 m2 g−1, 0.041 cm3 g−1). GNS-1 exhibited the highest discharge capacity (4.37 Ah g-1) and superior cycling stability compared with GNS-2 and Vulcan XC. Moreover, GNS-1 demonstrated promising performance at higher current densities (0.2 and 0.3 mA cm−2) and with various organic electrolytes. The superior performance of GNS-1 can be ascribed to its higher mesopore volume, SSA, and optimum wettability compared to its counterparts.

Impact of synthesis temperature and precursor ratio on the crystal quality of MOCVD WSe2 monolayers

Structural defects in transition metal dichalcogenide (TMDC) monolayers (ML) play a significant role in determining their (opto)electronic properties, triggering numerous efforts to control defect densities during material growth or by post-growth treatments. Various types of TMDC have been successfully deposited by MOCVD (metal-organic chemical vapor deposition), which is a wafer-scale deposition technique with excellent uniformity and controllability. However, so far there are no findings on the extent to which the incorporation of defects can be controlled by growth parameters during MOCVD processes of TMDC. In this work, we investigate the effect of growth temperature and precursor ratio during MOCVD of tungsten diselenide (WSe2) on the growth of ML domains and their impact on the density of defects. The aim is to find parameter windows that enable the deposition of WSe2 ML with high crystal quality, i.e. a low density of defects. Our findings confirm that the growth temperature has a large influence on the crystal quality of TMDC, significantly stronger than found for the W to Se precursor ratio. Raising the growth temperatures in the range of 688 °C to 791 °C leads to an increase of the number of defects, dominating photoluminescence (PL) at low temperatures (5.6 K). In contrast, an increase of the molar precursor ratio (DiPSe/WCO) from 1000 up to 100 000 leads to less defect-related PL at low temperatures.

EFFECT OF PHASE TRANSFORMATION ON OPTICAL PROPERTIES OF ZNTIO3 CERAMIC POWDER PREPARED BY SOL-GEL METHOD

ZnTiO3 powders were prepared by sol-gel method using ammonium hydroxide. The effects of calcination temperature (500– 1000∘ C). and the molar ratios ZnO/TiO2. The synthesis of a nano perovskite ZnTiO3 usually results in the formation of one or more of the compounds such as Zn2TiO4, and ZnTiO3 with other secondary impurity phases such as rutileTiO2 or ZnO. To obtain a phase-pure a nano perovskite ZnTiO3 at a low processing temperature is one of the challenges in materials chemistry., pure ZnTiO3 can not be synthesized under normal conditions, because it transforms into Zn2TiO4 and rutile. In the current study, the crystalline and phase transformation behaviors of sol-gel synthesized a nano perovskite ZnTiO3 has systematically been investigated with regard to various Zn:Ti precursor molar ratios. The ZnTiO3 phase can be detected by XRD in the powders calcined above 600 °C. The formation of ZnTiO3 is a slow reaction process, which leads to the development of large ZnTiO3 particles, with dimensions after calcination at 700 °C for 5 h in the range of 68–81 Nm. Calcination temperature increased considerably the crystallite size of the nano perovskite ZnTiO3 from 68 to 81 nm This treatment led also to the creation of holes in the matrix of calcinated solids which increased the mobility of charge carriers (electrons) leading to a significant decrease in the decrease in the optical energy gap reaching to (2.7 to 2 )e.v.

Photocatalytic activities of SnS thin films deposited at room temperature

Tin monosulfide (SnS) thin films were deposited on glass substrates at room temperature utilising a simple, inexpensive, and modified chemical approach known as Successive Layer Adsorption and Reaction (SLAR). The properties of the films were thoroughly studied using an XRD, SEM, EDAX, and UV-VIS spectrophotometer. It was possible to deposite smooth, homogeneous, and uniform thin films with pollycrystalline nature, orthorombic structure, and UV-VIS absorption. Under visible light irradiation, SnS thin films demonstrated high photocatalytic degradation of Methylene Blue. It showed effective degradation of a common textile dye available in the marker as well. Dye degradation was found to be of first order, following the Langmuir-Hinshelwood mechanism. Theoretical band structure calculations suggested that the relative positions of the highest valence band and lowest conduction band were 1.605 eV and -0.085 eV, respectively. The photocatalyst's reusability, the involvement of the hydroxyl radical in photodegradation, and the variation in photocatalytic performance of SnS thin films with dye solution pH and initial dye concentration were all examined. Changes in the cationic precursor's molarity caused changes in the thin film's crystallinity, stoichiometry, and bandgap. Non-stoichiometric films demonstrated higher photocatalytic activity.

Structural and Electrochemical Behaviors of ZnO Structure: Effect of Different Zinc Precursor Molarity

This research synthesised zinc oxide (ZnO) structure by a hydrothermal method. ZnO samples were prepared using different molarities of zinc (Zn) precursor, ranging from 0.10 to 0.16 M. Structural and morphological properties were characterised by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The XRD patterns show that all samples are prominently grown along the three diffraction peaks at (001), (002) and (101) planes. The ZnO sample with 0.16 M Zn precursor has the highest peak orientation along the (002) plane. The average crystallite sizes for the ZnO structure with 0.10, 0.12, 0.14 and 0.16 M precursor are 48, 51, 49 and 31 nm, respectively. ZnO sample prepared at 0.16 M has the smallest crystallite size and the lowest tensile strain. The SEM images show that the ZnO samples are randomly oriented with average diameters of 209, 325, 295 and 348 nm when using 0.10, 0.12, 0.14 and 0.16 M of the precursor, respectively. The electrochemical behaviour of the ZnO structure was determined through cyclic voltammetry (CV) measurement. In the CV curve, the calculated specific capacitance for the ZnO sample prepared at 0.16 M has the highest value of 3.87 Fg−1. The ZnO sample prepared at 0.10 M has the lowest specific capacitance value of 2.11 Fg−1. Therefore, changing the molarity of the Zn precursor could change the structural and electrochemical properties. ZnO sample prepared with 0.16 M of the precursor provides the optimal result.

Microstructural tuning and band gap engineering of calcium hydroxides: a novel approach by pH variation.

Here we report a simple, inexpensive, energy benign, yet novel pH-driven chemical precipitation technique to achieve microstructural and band gap engineering of calcium hydroxide nanoparticles (CHNPs). The chemical precipitation route involved the use of 0.4-1.6M Ca(NO3 )2 .4H2 O solutions as the precursor and 1M NaOH solution as the precipitator. The simple variation in precursor molarity induces a pH change from about 12.4 to 11.3 in the reactant solution. The CHNPs characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy techniques confirm a jump of nanocrystallite size from ~50-70 nm with a concomitant reduction of direct optical band gap energy from ~5.38-5.26 eV. The possible mechanisms that could be operative behind obtaining microstructurally tuned (MT)-CHNPS and band gap engineering (BGE) are discussed from both theoretical and physical process perspectives. Furthermore, the implications of these novel results for possible futuristic applications are briefly hinted upon.