Work

Effect of deposition method on physical and methyl orange degradation properties of ZnO nanostructures

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: In this research, pure ZnO thin films were effectively deposited using ultrasonic spray pyrolysis (USP) (with both milled and non-milled precursors) and Dip Coating methods to assess their photocatalytic capabilities in degrading methyl orange. The study investigated the effects of the milling process and deposition techniques on the films’ structural, morphological, and optical properties, correlating these characteristics with their degradation performance. The findings indicated that USP reduced material deposition and favored the formation of larger particles due to the elevated deposition temperatures. Structural analysis confirmed the presence of a ZnO wurtzite structure along with Zn–O functional groups, with (002) preferential growth planes and minor contributions from other planes, with crystallite size variation from 25 to 33 nm, while morphological analysis revealed smaller particle sizes in films produced via dip coating. This research elucidates how varying deposition techniques affect ZnO’s structural, morphological, optical, and photocatalytic properties, enhancing photocatalytic efficiency by altering electron–hole interactions. These results provide valuable insights for optimizing ZnO-based photocatalysts aimed at effective dye degradation, thereby supporting potential applications in environmental remediation.

Source: Materials Research Express

DOI: 10.1088/2053-1591/ae602f

Authors: B Alarcón-Campos, I I L Garcilazo, A G Hernández, T V K Karthik

Institution: Tecnológico de Monterrey

Language: English

Topic: ZnO doping and properties

Subfield: Materials Chemistry

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,000

Funder: Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional