This book focuses on the study of synthesized ZnO powder using Zn(CH3COO)2∙2H2O precursor, methanol (as solvent), and sodium hydroxide (NaOH) to vary the pH. The successfully synthesized ZnO powder from the sol-gel centrifugation and sol-gel storage methods were characterized and investigated by X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, UV–visible spectroscopy, and photoluminescence test to compare the properties of the nanoparticles. The best characteristic of the ZnO powder from both methods was observed when the powders were coated on an ITO glass to fabricate a PEC. The current density–voltage performances of both PECs were investigated under luminescent and dark conditions.

Versatility, extended compositional ranges, better homogeneity, lesser energy consumption, and requirement of nonexpensive equipments have boosted the use of sol-gel process on top of the popularity in the synthesis of nanosystems. The sol-gel technique has not only revolutionized oxide ceramics industry and/or material science but has also extended widely into multidimensional applications. The book Recent Applications in Sol-Gel Synthesis comprises 14 chapters that deal mainly with the application-oriented aspects of the technique. Sol-gel prepared metal oxide (MO) nanostructures like nanospheres, nanorods, nanoflakes, nanotubes, and nanoribbons have been employed in biomedical applications involving drug deliveries, mimicking of natural bone, and antimicrobial activities. The possibility of controlling grain size in aerogel and preparation of ultrahigh-temperature ceramic (UHTC)-based materials, fluorescent glasses, ultraviolet photosensors, and photocatalysts have been discussed in detail by the experts in the field. The usefulness of sol-gel materials as active GRIN, as textile finisher, and as leather modifier with water-repellent and oil-resistive properties would be an incentive for researchers keen to pursue the field.

This volume provides expert coverage of the state-of-the-art in sol-gel materials for functional applications in energy, environment and electronics. The use of sol-gel technology has become a hotbed for cutting edge developments in many fields due to the accessibility of advanced materials through low energy processes. The book offers a broad view of this growing research area from basic science through high-level applications with the potential for commercialization and industrial use. Taking an integrated approach, expert chapters present a wide range of topics, from photocatalysts, solar cells and optics, to thin films and materials for energy storage and conversion, demonstrating the combined use of chemistry, physics, materials science and engineering in the search for solutions to some of the most challenging problems of our time.

Transparent and conducting Al-doped ZnO thin films with c-axis-preferred orientation were prepared on glass substrate via sol-gel route. The physical, optical and electrical properties were investigated to determine an optimal withdrawal speed, aluminum source and treatment in order to obtain a smooth, dense, highly crystalline, conductive and transparent thin film with a high figure of merit for transparent conducting oxide applications. An optimal withdrawal speed was found to be 2.5 cm/min. Optimal aluminum source and concentration was found to be 0.5 at.% using aluminum chloride hexahydrate. An additional treatment in an N2 environment was found to be the best method to improve the electrical properties of the films while maintaining high crystallinity and transparency.

This book is a printed edition of the Special Issue "Zinc Oxide Nanostructures: Synthesis and Characterization" that was published in Materials

There continues to be a worldwide interest in the size-dependent properties of nanostructured materials and their applications in many diverse fields such as catalysis, sensors, energy conversion processes, and biomedicine to name a few. The eleven chapters of this book written by different researchers include four chapters on the different methods of fabrication of specific materials followed by characterization of their properties, and the remaining seven chapters focusing on the fabrications and applications including three chapters on biomedical applications, two chapters on sensors, one chapter on solar cells, and one chapter on the use of nanoparticles in herbicides. These chapters provide up-to-date reviews useful for current and future researchers in these specific areas.

Metal Oxides for Next Generation Optoelectronic, Photonic and Photovoltaic Applications focuses on the optoelectronic, photonic and photovoltaic behaviors of metallic oxides and closely related phenomena, from elementary principles to the latest findings. Each chapter includes a comprehensive evaluation of the synthesis and characterization of the most relevant metal oxides nanostructures for each application. In addition, there is a focus on methods to tune the materials’ properties in order to improve devices performance. This book is suitable for researchers and practitioners in academia and industry working in the disciplines of materials science and engineering, chemistry and physics. Metal oxides are widely used in various optoelectronic devices, photonics, display devices, smart windows, sensors, optical components, energy-saving, and harvesting devices. Each application requires materials with their own specific properties. By controlling the particle size, shape, crystal structure, one can tune various properties of metal oxides viz. bandgap, absorption properties, conductivity, which alter the material for the specific application. Includes discussions of synthesis and characterization of metal oxides materials for applications in next-generation optoelectronic, photonic and photovoltaic devices Emphasizes material design strategies of metal oxide nanostructures Focuses on the optoelectronic, photonic and photovoltaic behaviors of metallic oxides and closely related phenomena, from elementary principles to the latest findings