Microwave-assisted chemical bath deposition of nanostructured ZnO particles

Microwave-assisted chemical bath deposition (MACBD) is an emerging technique for quick preparation of nanoscale and nanostructured particles. We report a simple and rapid process for synthesis of nanostructured ZnO particles by MACBD from aqueous solution of tetra ammonium zinc hydroxide. The effect of Zn+2 concentrations (0.025 to 0.2 mole/L), pH (10 to 11) and base on morphology and composition of deposited particles has been studied. Precursor solution (PS) containing 0.12 mole/L Zn+2 at pH approximately 10.3 and NaOH yielded ZnO flowers of sizes 1-2 /tm. The ZnO flowers typically consist of a central round rod surrounded by six tapered petals. Other PSs generated mixture of ZnO flowers and Zn(OH)2 rhombic particles. The results are explained on the basis of thermal decomposition of tetra ammonium zinc complex to ZnO or Zn(OH)2.