Advances in Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles: Synthesis, Characterization, Applications, and Future Prospects

2026-06-03T12:41:22+00:00

Zinc oxide (ZnO) is a multifunctional semiconductor nanomaterial that has attracted considerable attention due to its unique optical, electrical, piezoelectric, and catalytic properties. Its wide band gap (3.37 eV) and high exciton binding energy (60 meV) make it suitable for diverse applications in photocatalysis, sensing, optoelectronics, environmental remediation, and biomedicine. Recent advances in synthesis techniques have enabled precise control over the size, morphology, crystallinity, and surface characteristics of ZnO nanoparticles, significantly influencing their functional performance. This review summarizes recent developments in ZnO nanoparticle synthesis, characterization, and emerging applications. Conventional synthesis methods, including precipitation, hydrothermal, sol–gel, electrochemical, and microwave-assisted approaches, are discussed alongside environmentally friendly green synthesis strategies based on biological resources. Key characterization techniques such as XRD, FTIR, SEM, TEM, AFM, and UV–Visible spectroscopy are highlighted for their roles in evaluating structural, morphological, and optical properties. The review also highlights the expanding use of ZnO nanomaterials across a wide range of fields, including antibacterial and anticancer treatments, photocatalysis, sensing applications, environmental cleanup, and optoelectronic technologies. Furthermore, it examines key challenges such as toxicity concerns, reproducibility issues, and the difficulties associated with large-scale production.

Advanced Nano Research

Advances in Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles: Synthesis, Characterization, Applications, and Future Prospects