Synthesis and characterization of ZnO nanorods-Zn2SiO4 nanoparticles-PMMA nanocomposites for UV-C protection

• Published in: Optical materials 2022-01, Vol.123, p.111922, Article 111922
• Main Authors: Saberi Rise, Masumeh, Hosseini Ranjbar, Abbas, Noori, Hadi, Saheb, Vahid
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Effect of pH; Thin films; UV-C shielding; Zn2SiO4 nanoparticles; ZnO nanorods
• ISSN: 0925-3467; 1873-1252
• DOI: 10.1016/j.optmat.2021.111922

Nowadays, UV-C is used in a variety of applications, such as disinfection and sterilization of air, surface, and liquids. In particular, its application against the pandemic COVID-19 virus is of great interest. On the other hand, it must be remarked that UV-C is harmful to the eyes, face, head, ears, and skin of engaged employees or personnel but studies on the UV-C range are rare. To the best of our knowledge, studies on zinc silicate as UV-absorber are very rare. In this research, flexible and transparent ZnO nanorods-Zn2SiO4 nanoparticles-PMMA nanocomposite thin films were made for protecting against UV-C radiation. To find the most suitable morphology, the effect of pH variation on the morphology and structural properties of the prepared ZnO–Zn2SiO4 composites were studied. Here we show that the most regular morphology of composites consisting of ZnO nanorods decorated with Zn2SiO4 nanoparticles was obtained at pH 12.5. The UV–vis spectra show that ZnO–Zn2SiO4-PMMA nanocomposite thin films prepared at pH 12.5 exhibit optical transparency in the visible-wavelength region and a prominent UV-C absorbing capability. •ZnO nanorods-Zn2SiO4 nanoparticles nanocomposites by low-temperature hydrothermal method were prepared.•The effect of pH variation on the morphology and optical properties of nanocomposites was investigated.•Flexible and transparent ZnO–Zn2SiO4-PMMA nanocomposite thin films were fabricated.•ZnO–Zn2SiO4-PMMA nanocomposite thin films can efficiently be used in UV-C and UV-B radiation shielding.