Zinc oxide has been used extensively for ultraviolet absorption in sunscreens, window coatings, and pigments. Zinc oxide nanoparticles have a wide potential for optoelectronic and catalytic applications due to intrinsic semiconductor properties and photonic capabilities. Additionally, zinc oxide nanoparticles have been shown to have antimicrobial properties when tested against several bacterial strains, where the efficacy increases with decreasing particle size. However, with more widespread use, concern about the health hazards associated with ingestion of nanomaterials has also increased. Traditional syntheses for zinc oxide nanoparticles involve the use of reagents and solvents that are not ideal for human consumption. Zinc oxide nanoparticles synthesized under these methods may contain residual toxic contaminants that can be adsorbed onto the samples. The present study aims to develop a fully aqueous synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles by using commercially available reagents and polysaccharide capping agents for control of particle size. The development of a mild and commercially feasible synthesis of this material opens up the possibility of applications for water purification methods that are safe for human consumption.

Development of an aqueous synthesis for zinc oxide nanoparticles with biologically benign capping agents

251st National Meeting (2016)

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