Student Scholars & Faculty Mentors
Projects funded by our internal grants program. Search the table to find students or faculty mentors that share in your interests, and could help you achieve your goals in research, creative activity, or service.
Microwave Synthesis of Zinc Nanoplates and Nanorods and their Characterization Using UV-Vis Spectroscopy, Optical Microscopy, and Scanning Electron Microscopy
Name: Conan,
Advisor: Maria Schiza
Department: CHEM
Award: Student Research Grant
Abstract: In this project, we plan to synthesize zinc hydroxy sulfate nanoplates and zinc oxide nanorods using a simple microwave assisted synthesis. We will then characterize them using the newly acquired MU scanning electron microscope (SEM), as well as an optical microscope and the Ultraviolet-Visible absorption spectrophotometer. The synthesis parameters including the chemical concentration, reaction time, and microwave power of the synthesis will be optimized to produce the desired nanostructures. In addition, the catalytic efficiency of these nanostructures will be evaluated using a model chemical reaction. From this research project, a laboratory experiment that can be performed by undergraduate students can be developed. The aim of this developed experiment will be to educate students on microwave assisted synthesis, nanotechnology and its applications as well as using characterization instruments, such as the SEM.