In-Depth Thermal, Microstructural and Photoluminescence Analysis of Mesoporous ZnO/ZnAl2O4-MMO: The Effect of Molar Ratio

This manuscript reports a detailed preparation and characterization of mesoporous ZnO/ZnAl2O4 mixed metal oxide (MMO) through a two-step solution procedure utilizing Zn/Al layered double hydroxide (LDH) as starting materials. The influence of the molar ratio was comprehensively explored via a number of characterization techniques. Field emission scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed the occurrence of a sheet-like morphology with thickness of 65 nm at molar ratio (r = 6). Simultaneously, a mesoporous nature of the deposited film was observed through the surface area analysis. A considerable value of surface area was obtained (53.3 m(2) g(-1)) through which a high amount of dye was loaded on the deposited film (3.3 x 10(-4)); the latter was evaluated via a regression equation in conjunction with the ultraviolet visible light analysis. This in turn led to a robust correlation between the anticipated surface area, pore size, and the estimated dye loading amount. Moreover, the optical and photoluminescence (PL) features were investigated using UV-vis and PL techniques, wherein the near-band emission (was observed at around 380 nm. The proposed work may provide an alternative eco-friendly approach for future visible light photodetector application.

Automated summary

This study presents a detailed preparation and characterization of mesoporous ZnO/ZnAl2O4 mixed metal oxide (MMO) through a two-step solution procedure using Zn/Al layered double hydroxide (LDH) as starting materials. The influence of molar ratio on the properties was comprehensively explored, leading to different morphologies and surface areas.