Synthesis, characterisation and optical band gap of Cr1.3Fe0.7O3 nanopigments
Abstract
Purpose
Inorganic pigments have been widely investigated due to their chemical stability such as resistance to chemical attacks by acids and alkalis, excellent hardness and high temperature stability. Cr1.3Fe0.7O3 which is considered as a ceramic nanopigment also seems to be a highly efficient photovoltaic material. The paper aims to discuss these issues.
Design/methodology/approach
In this work, the paper reports the synthesis of a novel and high purity Cr1.3Fe0.7O3 nanopigment via sol-gel process using stearic acid as complexing agent. The method includes formation of an organic precursor with metallic cations homogeneously distributed all over the matrix. Sample characterisations were performed by X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, UV-vis diffused reflectance spectra and photoluminescence. The transport properties and colour characteristics were also investigated by spectroscopic and technological characterisation of the synthesised nanoparticles.
Findings
The prepared nanopigments were uniform in distribution and a spherical morphology with an average size of about 200 nm was observed. Cr1.3Fe0.7O3 nanoparticles showed a direct band gap value of 2.85 eV and the colour efficiency of the nanopigments evaluated by colourimetric analysis resulted characteristic values of L*=39.96, a*=3.67 and b*=3.12.
Originality/value
This method for synthesis of nanopigments is novel and could be employed for various applications in synthesis of wide variety of nanoceramics.
Keywords
Citation
Enhessari, M. (2013), "Synthesis, characterisation and optical band gap of Cr1.3Fe0.7O3 nanopigments", Pigment & Resin Technology, Vol. 42 No. 6, pp. 347-352. https://doi.org/10.1108/PRT-09-2011-0079
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2013, Emerald Group Publishing Limited