ZnO nanostructured materials and their potential applications: progress, challenges and perspectives.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Chemical Engineering

Background:

• Nanotechnology research focuses on nanoscale materials.
• Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) exhibit unique properties.
• ZnO NPs are crucial for various industrial applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review synthesis methods for ZnO NPs.
• To discuss modifications and applications of ZnO NPs.
• To highlight challenges and future scope in ZnO NP research.

Main Methods:

• Chemical synthesis routes including mechanochemical, sol-gel, hydrothermal, and solvothermal methods.
• Green synthesis using plant extracts.
• Modification of ZnO NPs with organic and inorganic compounds and polymer matrices.

Main Results:

• Comprehensive overview of ZnO NP synthesis techniques.
• Detailed applications in rubber, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, textile, opto-electronic, and agricultural industries.
• Exploration of photocatalytic and biomedical uses of ZnO NPs.

Conclusions:

• ZnO NPs offer diverse applications due to their properties.
• Green synthesis presents a sustainable approach.
• Further research is needed to address challenges and expand applications.