Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles

About

Well-defined ZnO nanoparticles with controlled surface functionality and narrow size distribution are prepared via organometallic hydrolysis. The chemical process is simple, occurring at ambient temperature and without post-synthesis refinement. The process avoids the use of surfactant ligands, which are currently used to control surface functionalisation, but which are particularly undesirable in certain applications due to their influence on weakening interfaces. The nanoparticles’ degree of surface coverage and diameter can be controlled independently, making it an interesting candidate for solution-based homogeneous catalysis applications. The technology also enables in situ preparation of well-dispersed ZnO/epoxy resin nano-composites. ZnO is an important functional material; in the bulk, it is a wide bandgap semiconductor, applied in lasing, field effect transistors, gas sensors, and in photovoltaics. The optoelectronic and surface properties of ZnO nanoparticles depend on the particle size, defect concentration, and surface species; thus control of these factors is of paramount importance. A patent application protecting this technology has been filed. When contacting us, please quote reference number 5780