Eco-Friendly Fabrication and Characterization of ZnO Nanoparticles, PANI, and ZnO-PANI Nanocomposites

Abstract

The increasing presence of organic pollutants, such as dyes and pharmaceutical residues, in water systems poses significant environmental and health risks, requiring the development of effective, sustainable cleanup technologies. In this study, we report the synthesis and detailed characterization of polyaniline (PANI), Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles, and ZnO/PANI nanocomposites as promising materials for environmental cleanup. The nanocomposites were produced via chemical oxidative polymerization, embedding ZnO nanoparticles within a PANI matrix to enhance their photocatalytic activity. Advanced techniques such as Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), X- ray Diffraction (XRD), Energy Dispersive X- ray Spectroscopy (EDX), and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) for surface area analysis were used to explore the structural, morphological, elemental, and surface properties of the individual components and the composite. TEM images showed uniform dispersion of ZnO nanoparticles within the PANI matrix and strong interfacial contact, aiding efficient charge separation. XRD confirmed the formation of a new crystalline phase in the composite and a significant decrease in crystallite size, indicating successful nanocomposite creation. EDX verified the elemental composition and even distribution of Zn, O, C, and N, while BET measurements indicated a notable increase in surface area (235.5 m²/g) and optimal pore size (~2.2-2.1 nm) in the nanocomposite compared to the individual components. This research introduces ZnO/PANI nanocomposites as a powerful, scalable material for advanced water treatment, providing a cost-effective and eco-friendly solution for degrading stubborn organic contaminants.