Hydrothermal synthesis of SnO₂/cellulose nanocomposites: optical, Structural, and morphological characterization

This study details the hydrothermal synthesis and characterization of SnO₂/nanocellulose (NC) nanocomposites, highlighting their potential for advanced applications. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the amorphous nature of the composites, with a broad peak at 25.6° and a rightward shift indicating strong SnO₂-NC interactions. A sharp peak at 32.26° in the SnO₂-20 sample signified a rutile structure with single-plane crystallinity. UV-Vis absorption spectra showed a significant blue shift, with bandgap values reaching 5.86 eV for SnO₂-5, compared to 3.6 eV for pure SnO₂, demonstrating enhanced optical properties. Photoluminescence (PL) spectra revealed prominent emissions at 384 nm and 486 nm, attributed to oxygen vacancies and defect states, which enhance luminescence and support optoelectronic applications. FTIR spectroscopy identified a peak at 3430 cm^-1, confirming abundant hydroxyl groups on cellulose surfaces and high sample purity. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images showed uniformly distributed SnO₂ nanoparticles on an amorphous NC matrix, with rod-like features contributing to irregular morphologies that impact defect density and optical behavior. These structural and optical improvements enhance charge transport and reduce carrier recombination, establishing SnO₂-NC nanocomposites as promising materials for optoelectronic devices, gas sensors, and photocatalysis. The integration of eco-friendly nanocellulose offers a sustainable pathway for developing next-generation technologies with superior performance.