Tuning of the band gap and dielectric loss factor by Mn doping of Zn(1-x)Mn(x)O nanoparticles

This study explored the structural, optical, and dielectric properties of Pure and Mn(+2) doped ZnO nano-particles (Zn(1−x)Mn(x)O) with x ≥ 20%, synthesized by co-precipitation method followed by annealing at 450(0)C. Different characterization techniques were conducted to characterize the as-prepared nano-particles. X-ray Diffraction analysis of the pure and Mn(+2) doped presented a hexagonal wurtzite structure and a decreased crystallite size with increasing doping concentration. Morphological analysis from SEM revealed finely dispersed spherical nanoparticles with particle size of 40–50 nm. Compositional analysis from EDX confirmed the incorporation of Mn(+2)ions in ZnO structure. The Results of UV spectroscopy showed that changing the doping concentration affects the band gap, and a red shift is observed as the doping concentration is increased. The band gap changes from 3.3 to 2.75 eV. Dielectric measurements exhibited decrease in the relative permittivity, dielectric loss factor and ac conductivity by increasing Mn concentration.