Zinc Oxide Nanopowder (ZnO, 99+%, 10-30 nm)

Technical Specifications:

• Chemical Composition:
  • Primary Ingredient: Zinc Oxide (ZnO)
  • Purity: 99+% (high purity with minimal impurities)
• Nanoparticle Size:
  • Particle Size Range: 10-30 nm (nanometers)
  • Particle Shape: Typically spherical or irregular, depending on the synthesis method.
• Surface Area:
  • Due to the nanoscale size, ZnO nanoparticles have a large surface area, which enhances their reactivity and makes them suitable for applications such as catalysis, electronics, and energy storage.
• Crystal Structure:
  • Structure: ZnO typically crystallizes in a hexagonal wurtzite structure, but it can also form cubic zinc blende structure depending on synthesis conditions. The wurtzite form is the most common in nanoparticle applications and is highly desirable for its unique optoelectronic properties.
• Density:
  • The nanopowder has a relatively low apparent density compared to bulk ZnO, due to the nanoscale particle size and the increased surface area.
• Other Characteristics:
  • Color: Zinc oxide is typically white in color, but the appearance may vary slightly depending on particle size and synthesis method.
  • Reactivity: ZnO nanoparticles are highly reactive due to their high surface area, making them ideal for use in a variety of catalytic, optoelectronic, and energy applications.
  • Optical Properties: ZnO nanoparticles possess excellent optical properties, such as a wide band gap (3.37 eV), which makes them suitable for UV absorption and optoelectronic applications.

Applications:

1. Sunscreens and Cosmetics:
   • Purpose: Zinc oxide is widely used in sunscreens and cosmetics for its ability to block UV radiation.
   • Application: ZnO nanoparticles are incorporated into sunscreens and skin care products to protect the skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. The nanoparticles provide broad-spectrum UV protection and are commonly used in mineral sunscreens for their non-toxic and non-irritating properties.
2. Electronics and Optoelectronics:
   • Purpose: ZnO is a semiconductor material with excellent electronic and optoelectronic properties.
   • Application: ZnO nanoparticles are used in the fabrication of electronic devices such as transistors, light-emitting diodes (LEDs), and photodetectors. ZnO’s wide bandgap also makes it suitable for use in UV lasers, sensors, and solar cells.
3. Catalysis:
   • Purpose: ZnO is an effective catalyst in various chemical reactions, particularly in environmental applications.
   • Application: ZnO nanoparticles are used in catalytic processes such as the oxidation of organic compounds, and in the reduction of nitrogen oxides (NOx) in air pollution control systems. Their high surface area makes them highly efficient in these catalytic applications.
4. Antibacterial and Antifungal Coatings:
   • Purpose: ZnO nanoparticles exhibit antibacterial and antifungal properties, making them useful in medical and hygiene applications.
   • Application: ZnO is used in coatings and textiles to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi. It is applied in wound dressings, medical devices, and hygiene products such as socks, shirts, and athletic wear. It also finds applications in antibacterial coatings for hospital surfaces and public spaces.
5. Energy Storage:
   • Purpose: ZnO is being researched for its potential use in energy storage applications due to its electrochemical properties.
   • Application: ZnO nanoparticles are used in batteries and supercapacitors to improve charge/discharge efficiency, capacity, and cycle stability. They are especially useful in lithium-ion batteries, where they help enhance performance and extend battery life.
6. Photocatalysis:
   • Purpose: ZnO’s photocatalytic properties allow it to break down pollutants when exposed to UV light.
   • Application: ZnO nanoparticles are used in environmental remediation, particularly in water and air purification. Under UV light, ZnO decomposes harmful organic pollutants, dyes, and chemicals in wastewater treatment systems. It is also used in self-cleaning surfaces and anti-fog coatings.
7. Gas Sensors:
   • Purpose: ZnO nanoparticles are highly sensitive to various gases, making them ideal for use in gas detection and monitoring applications.
   • Application: ZnO is used in gas sensors for detecting gases such as carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These sensors are widely used in industrial safety, environmental monitoring, and indoor air quality control.
8. Solar Cells:
   • Purpose: ZnO’s semiconducting properties make it an ideal material for use in solar energy applications.
   • Application: ZnO nanoparticles are incorporated into thin-film solar cells and dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) to enhance their efficiency. The material helps improve electron transport and light absorption, contributing to higher energy conversion rates in solar devices.
9. LEDs and Lasers:
   • Purpose: ZnO is used in optoelectronic devices such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and laser diodes due to its wide bandgap and high efficiency.
   • Application: ZnO nanoparticles are utilized in the production of UV LEDs and laser diodes for applications in medical devices, sensors, and ultraviolet sterilization. ZnO-based LEDs are also used in displays, signage, and other lighting applications.
10. Paints and Coatings:
    • Purpose: Zinc oxide is commonly used as a white pigment and in coatings for its stability and UV absorption properties.
    • Application: ZnO nanoparticles are added to paints and coatings to improve durability and provide UV protection. They are used in industrial coatings, automotive paints, and architectural finishes for their ability to resist degradation from UV radiation and protect surfaces from weathering.

Key Benefits:

• High Purity: The 99+% purity ensures that ZnO is free from impurities, which is crucial for sensitive applications such as electronics, medical devices, and cosmetics.
• UV Protection: ZnO nanoparticles provide excellent UV protection, making them ideal for use in sunscreens, cosmetics, and UV-blocking coatings.
• Catalytic and Photocatalytic Efficiency: ZnO’s high surface area and photocatalytic properties make it effective in environmental remediation and chemical processing applications.
• Antibacterial and Antifungal Properties: ZnO nanoparticles are effective in preventing the growth of bacteria and fungi, making them valuable in medical and hygiene applications.
• Versatile Applications: ZnO nanoparticles are used in a wide range of industries, from energy storage and electronics to healthcare and environmental protection, making them a highly versatile material in modern technologies.
• Environmentally Friendly: Zinc oxide is non-toxic, making it a safe material for use in consumer products, healthcare, and environmental applications.