Preparation and electrochemical characterization of manganese dioxide-zirconia nanorods

Abstract

MnO2–ZrO2 nanorods were prepared by wet chemical method by mixing the solutions of MnSO4 and ZrOCl2 varying in the range (0.05–0.45 M) in aqueous NaOH at an elevated temperature. The morphologies of the synthesized products are characterized by scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). X-ray diffraction (XRD) and energy-dispersive spectroscopic measurements were also employed for the characterization of the nanostructures. The synthesized nanoparticles were also characterized by ultraviolet visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, electrochemical impedance and cyclic voltammetric studies. The morphological studies of the nanoparticles revealed particle distribution with uniform rod-like structure. Energy-dispersive analysis indicated the presence of Mn, Zr and O. The nanostructures of the product were characterized by TEM studies and the mixed rod and granular structure that was found clearly indicated the presence of MnO2–ZrO2 mixed oxide. The size of the synthesized nanorod was found to be 20 nm. From XRD studies the size of the nanorods was found to be in the range 39–56 nm calculated by Debye–Scherrer’s formula. Thermal stability of the nanorods was characterized by thermogravimetric and differential scanning colorimetric analysis. Cyclic voltammetric studies exhibit good adherent behavior on electrode surface and good electroactivity at a pH value of 1.0.