LiNH₂-Based Nitridation Synthesis and Structure Analysis of GaN:ZnO Solid Solutions

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Solid-State Chemistry
• Photocatalysis

Background:

• Gallium Nitride:Zinc Oxide (GaN:ZnO) solid solutions are crucial for visible-light photocatalysis.
• Current synthesis methods are time-consuming and rely on hazardous chemicals like ammonia gas.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel, efficient, and sustainable synthesis route for GaN:ZnO solid solutions.
• To investigate the use of a molecular source, lithium amide (LiNH₂), for enhanced material synthesis.

Main Methods:

• Utilized high reactivity of LiNH₂ in molten lithium chloride for rapid nitridation.
• Employed X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), and X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) for material characterization.
• Investigated different zinc sources and Zn/Ga ratios to assess reaction uniformity.

Main Results:

• Achieved rapid formation of highly crystalline GaN:ZnO within 2 hours at 650 °C.
• Demonstrated a significant reduction in synthesis time compared to conventional methods (>10 hours).
• Confirmed tunable light absorption edges (500-650 nm) based on zinc content and source.

Conclusions:

• Established a novel, efficient, and environmentally friendly synthesis strategy for GaN:ZnO solid solutions.
• The LiNH₂-mediated molten salt method offers a safer alternative to ammonia gas and nitrate oxidizers.
• This advancement facilitates the development of GaN:ZnO for visible-light-driven applications.