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This study presents a novel approach to synthesize zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles using a polymer precursor method, offering precise control over particle size in the nanometer scale. Zinc oxide nanoparticles are of significant interest due to their wideranging applications in various fields such as solar cells, gas sensors, photocatalysts, and nanomedicines. The synthesized nanoparticles were thoroughly characterized using X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), and Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The distinct hexagonal form detected in the XRD pattern, featuring characteristic reflection planes at angles of 31.72° (100), 34.39° (002), 36.23° (101), and 47.44° (102), signifies the synthesis of ZnO possessing a hexagonal wurtzite structure. The SEM and TEM images revealed uniformly spherical particles with an average size ranging from 35 to 40 nm. Such uniform morphology and size distribution are critical for ensuring consistent performance in applications such as gas sensing and catalysis. Additionally, the FTIR spectra indicated a reduction in impurities after the synthesis process, highlighting the effectiveness of the polymer precursor method in producing high-quality ZnO nanoparticles. Heating the ZnO precursor material at 400°C for 2 hours significantly reduces impurities, suggesting conversion to ZnO nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chlorophenols are one of the major organic pollutants responsible for the contamination of water bodies. This study explores the application of Ni-Zn/CeO2 nanocomposites, synthesized via the aqueous co-precipitation method, as effective adsorbents for the 4-chlorophenol removal from aqueous solutions. The nanocomposites' chemical and structural characteristics were assessed using different physical characterization methods, viz. X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, zeta potential, using a Box-Behnken design within response surface methodology, optimal conditions of pH 3, temperature 20 °C, contact time 120 min, adsorbent dosage 0.05 g, and 4-chlorophenol concentration 50 ppm are identified. Among the nanocomposites tested, NZC 20:10:70, with 20% Ni and 10% Zn, achieves enhanced performance, removing 99.1% of 4-chlorophenol within 2 h. Adsorption kinetics follow the pseudo-second-order model and equilibrium data fit the Freundlich isotherm. Thermodynamic analysis indicates an exothermic and spontaneous process. The adsorption capacity of NZC 20:10:70 shows significant enhancement, growing from 19.85 mg/g at 10 ppm to 96.33 mg/g at 50 ppm initial concentration. Physical characterization confirms NZC 20:10:70's superior properties, including a high surface area of 118.471 m2/g. Evaluating economic viability, NZC 20:10:70 demonstrates robust reusability, retaining 85% efficiency over eight regeneration cycles. These results highlight NZC 20:10:70 as a promising adsorbent for effective and sustainable chlorophenol removal in water treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supercapacitors (SCs) are potentially trustworthy energy storage devices, therefore getting huge attention from researchers. However, due to limited capacitance and low energy density, there is still scope for improvement. The race to develop novel methods for enhancing their electrochemical characteristics is still going strong, where the goal of improving their energy density to match that of batteries by increasing their specific capacitance and raising their working voltage while maintaining high power capability and cutting the cost of production. In this light, this paper offers a succinct summary of current developments and fresh insights into the construction of SCs with high energy density which might help new researchers in the field of supercapacitor research. From electrolytes, electrodes, and device modification perspectives, novel applicable methodologies were emphasized and explored. When compared to conventional SCs, the special combination of electrode material/composites and electrolytes along with their fabrication design considerably enhances the electrochemical performance and energy density of the SCs. Emphasis is placed on the dynamic and mechanical variables connected to SCs′ energy storage process. To point the way toward a positive future for the design of high‐energy SCs, the potential and difficulties are finally highlighted. Further, we explore a few important topics for enhancing the energy densities of supercapacitors, as well as some links between major impacting factors. The review also covers the obstacles and prospects in this fascinating subject. This gives a fundamental understanding of supercapacitors as well as a crucial design principle for the next generation of improved supercapacitors being developed for commercial and consumer use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]