The properties of ZnGa2O4 nanoparticles with spinel structure obtained by the hydrothermal method

Zinc gallate (ZnGa2O4) is a normal spinel crystal structure (space group Fd3m). ZnGa2O4 has attracted much attention due its multitude of possible applications regarding field emission display, electroluminescent devices, and in the last decade mostly sensor domain. ZnGa2O4 nanoparticles were obtained by the hydrothermal method using Ga2O3 and Zn(NO3)2 x 6H2O precursors in basic medium using a Teflon-lined stainless steel autoclave tightly sealed. The synthesys was effectuated at 210°C for 4 h. The hydrothermal method is one of the most promising solution chemical methods. Thus, the size of particles and their distribution, phase homogeneity, and morphology could be well controlled. These powders were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XDR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDAX), and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Photoluminescence (PL) measurements were obtained with a conventional lamp as an excitation source.