Synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles in polyvinyl alcohol solutions using laser assisted synthesis in solution (LASiS) method

Abstract

ZnO nanoparticles are widely studied because of their superior properties so they are widely used in various applications. Structural modification with the right synthesis method is the key to getting superior properties. In this experiment, Laser Assisted Synthesis in Solution (LASiS) method was used to synthesize ZnO nanoparticles. The LASIS method was carried out using a metal plate Zn as a target placed in a solution of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) with different concentrations, namely 1%, 2%, 3% and 4%. This laser ablation has caused a solution of gray colloidal ZnO nanoparticles. Different PVA concentrations do not affect the color of the produced ZnO nanoparticle solution. The properties and structure of ZnO nanoparticles were characterized using UV-Vis spectrophotometer, Zetasizer spectrometer, and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). The UV visible absorbance spectrum shows the maximum absorption characteristics of ZnO nanoparticles observed at a wavelength of 344 nm. The maximum absorbance value rises by increasing the concentration of PVA and reaching the maximum value at a concentration of 3%. These ZnO nanoparticles have a size around 80 nm. TEM analysis shows that ZnO nanoparticles have a spherical shape and have good crystallinity based on SAED measurements. This property is due to the role of PVA in the synthesis process.