Zinc oxide nanoparticles improve performance of optical laser

Iranian researchers from Islamic Azad University, Shahreza Branch, used chemical methods to produce zinc oxide nanoparticles with regular structure to be used in optical industries. The nanoparticles can be used in optical industries, specifically in the production of lasers, to improve the performance of optical lasers. In this study, the researchers modified the structure and surface of zinc oxide nanoparticles to improve their optical properties and therefore the performance of optical lasers with blue emission and visible spectrum. In order to achieve their goals, the researchers firstly synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles through chemical method in the presence of surfactants with various electrostatic natures and indium ion. Next, they characterized structural, surface, and optical properties of the synthesized nanoparticles. The synthesized material showed blue photoluminescence emission with high intensity and also other visible colorful spectra, which makes it very appropriate for laser and optical purposes. Taking into account the obtained results, various structures of nanoparticles can be easily produced depending on their different applications. The nanoparticles enable the production of lasers that are able to emit blue light and other colors in visible spectra with high intensity. On the other hand, the produced nanoparticles can be used in photodegradation of chemical pollutants under visible light, which is cheaper and safer than ultraviolet light. Results of the research have been published in Ceramics International, vol. 40, January 2014, pp. 3453-3460.