Synthesis, Characterization and Dielectric Studies of Metal Doped ZnO Nanoparticles

Abstract

Pure ZnO and Zn1-xMx O, (x= 0.01, 0.03, and 0.05) metal doped ZnO nanoparticles were prolifically synthesized chemically via low cost co-precipitation technique. The surface morphology and crystal structure analysis was assessed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD). SEM images showed an average particle size in range of 28-35 nm. XRD analysis ensures the crystal structure as hexagonal wurtzite and metal ions (Al, Cu, Mg and Ni) were fruitfully incorporated into Zn2+ lattice positions. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was performed to observe chemical bonds and the elemental constituents. Metal doped samples gave peaks at 843 and 632 cm-1 confirmation of doping. The dielectric properties; such as dielectric constants (′,′′), tangent loss (tan𝛿) and ac conductivity (σac) for all undoped and metal doped nanoparticles were studied as the function of frequency and varying concentrations of dopant, explained by “Maxwell Wagner Model” and by “space charge polarization” and “interfacial polarization”.