Application of statistical design to optimize the preparation of ZnO nanoparticles via hydrothermal technique

Synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles was carried out by hydrothermal technique in the presence of hexamethylenetetramine (HMTA) as a surfactant. Statistical design was used to investigate the effect of main parameters (i.e., surfactant concentration, time and temperature) on ZnO particle size and morphology. The results indicated that the formation of ZnO nanoparticles was confirmed, using XRD and SEM, at 100 degrees C and their crystallinity was improved with temperature rise from 100 to 200 degrees C. Particle size of ZnO in the range of 55-110 nm is achieved using this technique. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.