Synthesis and Characterization of ZnO–MgO Nanocomposite by Co-precipitation Method

Co-precipitation along with aging at 80 °C has been used to synthesize zinc-magnesium nanocomposite. Obtained materials were characterized by scanning electron micrograph, point energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD) and UV–visible diffuse reflectance spectra (UV-DRS) so as to determine its various physico-chemical characteristics. EDX analysis confirmed the presence of Zn, Mg, and O elements within ZnO–MgO nanocomposite. Formation of magnesium oxide along with zinc oxide nanocomposite has been confirmed by XRD analysis which has been reaffirmed by point EDX analysis. Optical properties investigated by UV-DRS showed decrease in maximum reflectance (~25%) due to incorporation of MgO within ZnO nanoparticle. Electrochemical study showed higher electrochemical activity of ZnO–MgO nanocomposite than bare ZnO nanoparticle.