Fatemeh Davar

Abstract: In the present paper, we report the successful synthesis of spinel-type of zinc aluminate (ZnAl2O4) nanoparticles by a modified sol-gel method. Aluminum nitrate and Zn(en)2+ complex (en: ethylenediamine) as new Zn2+ source were used. Diethylene glycol monoethyl ether and citric acid are employed as solvent and chelating agent. This method starts from the precursor complex, and involves formation of homogeneous solid intermediates, reducing atomic diffusion paths during thermal treatment. ZnO and ZnAl2O4 nanocrystals were obtained when the precursor was heat-treated at 350 °C in air for 2 h. The stages of the formation of ZnAl2O4, as well as the characterization of the resulting compounds were done using thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The structure, particle size, and temperature of formation of ZnAl2O4 phases were found to depend on the precursors and methods used for preparation and the calcination temperature. The lowest temperature for preparation of the ZnAl2O4 is about 550 °C. © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: Bi2Se3 nanorods have been synthesized through a simple hydrothermal reduction approach. The nanorods formed were ≈50 nm in average diameter and ≈4 μm nm in length. XRD characterization suggested that the product consisted of the rhombohedral phase of pure Bi 2Se3. The products were also characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and thermo gravimetric analysis. The synthesis procedure is simple and uses less toxic reagents than the previously reported methods. The results showed that the capping agent CTAB plays a crucial role in the process. Other factors, such as the reaction time, the different capping agent and the sort of reductant also have influence on the morphology of the final products to some extent. © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: ZnO nanosphericals and nanobundles well dispersion have been synthesized using [(N,N′-bis(salicylaldehydo)ethylenediamine)zinc(II)]; [Zn(salen)] as precursor via two methods. Nanosphericals of ZnO has been prepared via thermal decomposition of [Zn(salen)] in the presence of oleylamine at 290 °C for 90 min. Also nanobundle of ZnO has been synthesized via thermolysis of [Zn(salen)] in the air at 500 °C for 5 h. The as-synthesized products were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and scanning electronic microscopy (SEM). The room temperature photoluminescence (PL) spectra of both nanostructures are dominated by the green emission attributed to the oxygen vacancy (VO) related donor-acceptor transition. Presence of several infrared (IR) inactive vibrational modes in the Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) absorption spectra of the samples indicates a breakdown of translational symmetry in the nanostructures induced by native defects. © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: Lanthanum carbonate nanoparticles were synthesized from the reaction of lanthanum acetate and Na2CO3 under sonication via sonochemical method. Lanthanum hydroxide nanoparticles were prepared by facial hydrothermal processing from the resulted product at 110 °C for 24 h. The role of surfactant, calcination temperature and sonication time were investigated on the morphology and particle size of the products. Products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectrum (XPS), and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectra. La2O3 nanoparticles were obtained by calcinations of the nanoparticles of lanthanum carbonate at 600 °C. © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: Strontium carbonate nanorods have been successfully synthesized via solid-state decomposition of a new precursor, [Sr(Pht)(H2O) 2]. The obtained nanorods were found to be orthorhombic with the length of 70-100 nm and the diameter of about 10-15 nm. The Effect of calcinations temperature on morphology and purity of the products has been investigated. Strontium carbonate nanorods were formed at 500 °C. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. In addition, further evidence for the purity and stoichiometry of the product was obtained by XPS (X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy) spectrum. © 2010 Elsevier B.V.

Abstract: Shape- and size-controlled single-phase α-Fe2O3 (hematite) nanoparticles have been successfully synthesized via a simple and facile thermal treatment route using modified precursors. At first, various ferric-surfactant systems such as: ferric-sugars, ferric-hydrazine, ferric-oleic acid, and ferric-sugar-hydrazine were prepared via a wet-chemical precipitation method and then, these intermediate adducts as precursor were decomposed in at ordinary atmosphere to iron oxide. The morphology and particle size of products were investigated by SEM and TEM images and XRD patterns. These results revealed that the best quality α-Fe2O3 nanoparticles are synthesized through thermal decomposition of ferric-glucose precursor with molar ratio of 1:8 heated at 500°C in a step-wise manner. © 2011 Elsevier B.V.

Abstract: For the first time, we report the novel synthesis of flocculus-like spheres of nickel hydroxy hydrate with grain size of ~7nm via the thermolysis of nickel phthalate polymer. Nickel phthalate polymer formulated as [Ni(Pht)(H2O)]n was simply prepared via a precipita- tion procedure by mixing of 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid (phthalic acid) to nickel acetate salt under basic condition. Nickel hydroxy hy-drate nanostructures were obtained by thermolysis of [Ni(Pht)(H2O)]n polymer in the presence of oleic acid (OA) at 190 °C and NiO nanoparticles were formed via the thermolysis of nickel phthalate polymer in the presence of oleic acid and triphenylphosphine (TPP) at higher temperature. Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were applied for the characterization of products. The magnetic property of NiO nanoparticles were studied with vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) at 300 K. © 2011 Bentham Science Publishers Ltd.

Abstract: Zinc blend ZnS nanoparticles were synthesized by a thioglycolic acid (TGA), HSCH2COOH, assisted hydrothermal technique via the reaction between a new inorganic precursor [bis(2-hydroxyacetophenato)zinc(ii)] [Zn(HAP) 2] and thioacetamide (CH3CSNH2). The as-synthesized ZnS nanoparticles have an average diameter of 38 ± 2 nm. The product was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. The effect of reactant concentration, reaction temperatures and reaction times on crystal structures and shapes of products have been investigated. © 2011 The Royal Society of Chemistry.

Abstract: HgSe nanorods have been synthesized through a simple hydrothermal reduction approach. The nanorods formed were ≈45 nm average diameter and ≈3 μm nm in length. X-ray diffraction characterization suggested that the product consists of cubic phase pure HgSe. The as-prepared products were also characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). An X-ray energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDX) study further confirmed the composition and purity of the product. The synthesis procedure is simple and uses less toxic reagents than the previously reported methods. The results showed that the capping agent CTAB (cetyltrimethylammoniumbromide) plays a crucial role in the process. Other factors, such as the reaction time, temperature, different capping agent and the reductant type also have an influence on the morphology of the final products to some extent. © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Abstract: In this work lanthanum hydroxide nanoparticles were synthesized by sonochemical method. La2O3 nanoparticles were obtained after calcination of the La(OH)3 nanoparticles precursor in air at 600 °C for 2 h. The effect of some parameters such as concentration of precursors, pulse time of sonication, time of sonication, and addition of PEG as surfactant on the morphology and the particle size were studied. The as-prepared products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectrum (XPS) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectra. © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: Nickel oxide nanoparticles have been synthesized via heat-treatment of a new precursor nickel octanoate Ni(octa)2; (octa = octanoate); in the range of 400-900 °C. The effect of calcination temperature on particle size has been investigated. When the calcinations were conducted in air from 400 to 900 °C, the precursor Ni(octa)2 was first changed to Ni, then to NiO. When calcined in argon atmosphere, Ni(octa)2 was directly converted into pure Ni at as low as 500 °C. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. The synthesized NiO nanoparticles have quasi-spherical particles with size of about 24 nm. The optical absorption band gap of NiO nanoparticles is 3.41 eV. © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: The present investigation reports the synthesis of SnO2 nanoparticle using thermal decomposition and characterization of their physicochemical characterization. The SnO2 nanoparticle powder has been prepared using [bis(2-hydroxyacetophenato)tin(II)], [Sn(HAP)2]; as precursor. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis was demonstrated that SnO2 nanoparticle with an average diameter of about 14-22 nm. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. Also the novel precursor was thermal treated in solid-state reaction in different temperature, 350, 450, and 550 °C. © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: The synthesis of manganese oxide (Mn3O4) nanoparticles by using thermal decomposition and its physicochemical characterization are being reported in present investigation. As a new precursor, [bis(2-hydroxy-1-naphthaldehydato)manganese(II)] complex was used in the presence of oleylamine (C18H37N) as both surfactant and solvent to control the size of resulting nanoparticle. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Raman spectrum. Synthesized manganese oxide nanoparticles have a tetragonal structure with average size of 9-24 nm. The phase pure samples were characterized by using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) for Mn 2p level. The values of binding energies are consistent with the relative values are reported in the literature. As a comparison between two methods, the novel precursor thermally was treated in solid state reaction in different temperature, 400, 500, and 600 °C and the products were characterized by SEM images. Magnetic property of the as-prepared Mn3O4 nanoparticle shows a ferromagnetic behavior with high saturation magnetization and coercivity. © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Abstract: In the present paper, we report the successful synthesis of a thioglycolic acid capped ZnS(Pn)0.5 nanotubes (Pn = propanediamine) by a simple aqueous solution route employing ZnS(Pn)2 and TGA as a reactant at relatively low temperature. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy, photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric-differential thermal analysis (TG-DTA). The effect of TGA concentration, on shapes and size of as-prepared product has been investigated. The thioglycolic acid capped ZnS(Pn)0.5 nanotubes showed considerable blue shift in comparison of bulk ZnS because of quantum confinement effect. © 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: Copper(II) complexes with 18- and 20-membered hexaaza macrocyclic ligands [Cu([18]py2N4)]2 +, [Cu([20]py2N4)]2 +, [Cu(Bzo2[18]py2N4)]2 + and [Cu(Bzo2[20]py2N4)]2 + were entrapped in the nanocavity of zeolite-Y by a two-step process in the liquid phase: (i) adsorption of [bis(diamine)copper(II)] (diamine = 1,2-diaminoethane, 1,3-diaminopropane, 1,2-diaminobenzene, 1,3-diaminobenzene); [Cu(N-N)2]2 +@NaY; within the zeolite, and (ii) in situ template condensation of the copper(II) precursor complex with 2,6-diacetylpyridine. The obtained new complex nanoparticles entrapped within zeolite Y; [Cu([18]py2N4)]2 +@NaY, [Cu([20]py2N4)]2 +@NaY, [Cu(Bzo2[18]py2N4)]2 +@NaY, [Cu(Bzo2 [20]py2N4)]2 +@NaY; have been characterized by elemental analysis FT-IR, XPS, DRS, UV-vis spectroscopic techniques, molar conductance, magnetic moment data, XRD and nitrogen adsorption. Copyright © Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.

Abstract: In order to raise the need of co-surfactant in the synthesis of NiO nanoparticles, [bis(2-hydroxy-1-naphthaldehydato)nickel(II)] complex was employed as a novel precursor in thermal decomposition process using oleylamine (C18H37N) as surfactant. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy. Also the novel precursor thermally was treated in solid state reaction in different temperature, 400, 500, and 600 °C. Synthesized nickel oxide nanoparticles have a cubic phase with average size of 15-20 nm. © 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: Nano-sized Cu6Sn5 alloy powders were prepared by a co-precipitation reductive route using a hydrothermal method at 80 °C. The nano-size and morphology of the synthesized Cu6Sn5 alloy powders were evaluated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The obtained morphologies, chemical compositions are comparatively discussed. A variety of synthesis parameters, such as time, capping agent and sort of reductant, has an effect on the morphology of the obtained materials, and will be particularly highlighted. © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Abstract: In this paper, based-alloy Bi2Te3 nanostructure with different morphologies was synthesized by a hydrothermal process based on the reaction between Bi(NO3)3, TeCl4, and KBH4 in water at various conditions. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FT-IR), X-ray photoelectron spectrum and inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometer and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The result shows that the Bi2Te3 crystals have diameters ranging from 20 to 25 nm with high purity. Other factors, such as the reaction time, the different capping agent and the sort of reductant also have influence on the morphology of the final products to some extent. By variation of reductant, conversion rode-like to flower-like was obtained. Organic ligands play a manifold role in the formation of the chainlike nanostructures as both coordinate ligand and architecture template, and a possible formation mechanism is proposed. © 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: Different morphologies of nanostructured tin sulfide (SnS) including nanoparticles, nanosheets and nanoflowers have been prepared via a simple hydrothermal reaction between SnCl2·2H2O and thioglycolic acid (TGA) at relatively low temperature. Products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy, photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL), and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectra. The effect of reactant concentration, mole ratio of TGA to the Sn2+, temperature and reaction time on the morphology, particle sizes and phase of nanocrystalline SnS products has been investigated. © 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: [Bis(2-hydroxy-1-naphthaldehydato)copper(II)] complex, as a novel precursor, was employed in thermal decomposition process to synthesize metallic copper nanoparticles using oleylamine (C18H37N) as capping agent. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy. The synthesized copper nanoparticles have a fcc structure with average size 20-35 nm. © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: Benzenedicarboxylate complexes, especially phthalate ones, can be significant precursors for the preparation of nano-sized metal and metal oxides. The injection of organic surfactants such as oleic acid (OA) and triphenylphosphine into molecular precursors has yielded samples with size control, narrow size distributions and crystallinity of individual nanocrystals. Fourier transform infrared and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy revealed that the OA molecules were adsorbed on the ferromagnetic nanoparticles by chemisorption. The temperature-dependent magnetization curve in zero-field-cooled and field-cooled exhibit weak ferromagnetism of the Co3O4 nanoparticles. At 300 K the remanent magnetization is 0.02 emu/g, the coercive field is 441 Oe and the magnetization at saturation is 1.05 emu/g. © 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: As a new precursor, [bis(2-hydroxy-1-naphthaldehydato)tin(II)]; ([Sn(HNA)2]), complex was used in thermal decomposition process for the synthesis of tin oxide (SnO2) nanoclusters. The steric hindrance of the precursor raises the need of using co-surfactant, therefore oleylamine (C18H37N) was applied as the only surfactant of the reaction. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. Also the novel precursor was thermal treated in solid-state reaction in different temperature, 400, 500, and 600 °C. Synthesized tin dioxide nanoclusters with tetragonal phase, have average size of 1.5-4 nm. Finally, optical properties of the products were examined and investigated by photoluminescence spectra. © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: Nanosized tin telluride compounds were prepared by chemical reduction process and hydrothermal methods. The nanosized SnTe compounds were characterized by means of X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The SnTe nanoalloy prepared by chemical reduction process presented quasi-spherical morphology with aggregation. The sizes of particle were 40-50 nm. The powder prepared by hydrothermal process was nearly nanospheres, and the particle sizes were 30-40 nm with narrow distribution. The effect of capping agent, reductant sort, and reaction temperature on the morphology, the particle sizes and the phase of SnTe alloys have been investigated. Experimental results indicated that N 2H4·H2O plays a crucial role in the formation of nanosized rode-like SnTe compounds. © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: Star-shaped PbS nanostructures were prepared by simple hydrothermal process of [bis(thiosemicarbazide)lead(II)], [Pb(TSC)2]Cl2 (TSC = thiosemicarbazide), at 150 °C, without any additive. Effect of reaction time on the morphology of the products was investigated. Also PbS nanoparticles was synthesized by thermal decomposition of precursor in the presence of oleylamine and triphenylphosphine as surfactant. In this process, oleylamine was used as both the medium and the stabilizing reagent. Also the novel precursor thermally was treated in solid state reaction in different temperatures, 400, and 500 °C for 5 h. Products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectra. The band gap energy of star-shaped PbS nanostructures has been estimated to be 3.19 eV which shows a large increment compared with that of bulk PbS. © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: The present work reports the synthesis of magnesium oxide (MgO) nanocrystals via a thermal decomposition route and the study of physicochemical properties of products. The MgO nanocrystals were prepared from magnesium oxalate powders as precursor. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis demonstrated MgO nanocrystals with an average diameter of about 20-25 nm. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), selected area electronic diffraction (SAED), and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. Optical absorption and photoluminescence emission properties of MgO nanocrystals were investigated. © 2010 Elsevier Ltd.

Abstract: Nanocavity microreactor containing 15- and 16-membered diaza dioxa Schiff-base cobalt(II) complexes "[Co(Et[15]N2O 2)]2+, [Co(Pr[16]N2O2)] 2+, [Co(Ph[15]N2O2)]2+ and [Co(Ch[15]N2O2)]2+" have been prepared by the template synthesis of diamine (1,2-diaminoethane, 1,3-diaminopropane, 1,2-diaminobenzene or 1,2-diaminocyclohexane) with [(1,3-bis(2- carboxyaldehydephenoxy)propane)cobalt]2+;[Co(BCAPP)]2+NaY within the pores of zeolite-Y. The nanosized cobalt(II) complex were entrapped in the supercage of Y-zeolite by a three-step process in the liquid phase: (i) exchange of Co(II) ions with NaY in water solution, (ii) reaction of Co(II)-NaY with excess BCAPP in methanol; [Co(BCAPP)]2+NaY; (iii) template synthesis of [Co(BCAPP)]2+NaY with diamine. The new nanosized complex entrapped in the nanocavity of zeolite Y was characterized by several techniques: chemical analysis and spectroscopic methods (FT-IR, UV-Vis, XRD, BET, DRS, XPS, TGA). © 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Abstract: Hierarchical nanostructureds of β-NiS were successfully prepared by hydrothermal treatment of Ni(NO3)2.6H2O and thioglycolic acid (TGA) at 180 °C. The as prepared β-NiS hierarchical nanostructureds were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) absorption spectroscopy, photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectra. The hierarchical nanostructureds, with an average diameter of ~600 nm, were composed of short nanorods with a diameter of ~30 nm and a length of about 150 nm. On the basis of the experimental results and corresponding literatures, a possible growth mechanism of the NiS hierarchical nanocrystals is discussed. The obtained products have relatively high surface area, which favors the application in catalysis.

Abstract: Cu(II) complexes of 14- and 16-membered tetraaza macrocyclic ligands have been encapsulated in nanopores of zeolite-Y by a two-step process in the liquid phase: (1) adsorption of [bis(diamine)copper(II)] (diamine = 1,2-diaminoethane, 1,3-diaminopropane, 1,2-diaminobenzene, and 1,3-diaminobenzene); [Cu(N-N) 2]2+-NaY; in the nanopores of the zeolite-Y and (2) in situ condensation of the copper(II) precursor complex with ethylcinnamate. The new host-guest nanocomposite materials were characterized by chemical analysis and spectroscopic methods. The neat and encapsulated complexes exhibit good catalytic activity in the oxidation of ethylbenzene at 333 K, using tert-butyl hydroperoxide as the oxidant. Acetophenone was the major product though small amounts of o- and p-hydroxyacetophenones were also formed revealing that C-H bond activation takes place both at benzylic and aromatic ring carbon atoms. © 2010 Taylor & Francis.

Abstract: Pure tin dioxide (SnO2) nanoparticles were synthesized via thermolysis of tin phthalate and tin oxalate in the presence of oleic acid (OA) as solvent. Oleic acid (OA) was employed as an organic solvent, which can be applied to control particle growth and to stabilize the particles. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. The orthorhombic phase SnO2 nanoparticles with average size about 12 nm were synthesized through thermolysis of tin phthalate in the presence of oleic acid. © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Abstract: In the present study, hydroxyl functionalized manganese(iii) Schiff-base; [Mn((OH)2-salophen)Cl] [(OH)2-salophen] = (N,N′-bis(4-hydroxysalicylidene)phenylene-1,2-diamine); has been covalently anchored on modified multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWNTs); [Mn((OH)2-salophen)Cl]@MWNTs]. The new modified MWNTs have been characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron (XPS), thermal analysis, FT-IR spectroscopy and elemental analysis. The results suggest that the symmetrical Schiff-base is a bivalent anion with tetradentate N2O2 donors derived from the phenolic oxygen and azomethine nitrogen. 4-Hydroxy salophen; [(OH) 2-salophen], complex of manganese, grafted on the walls of MWNTs have been investigated as catalysts for the aerobic oxidation of para-xylene in the absence of added halogen promoters and using tert-butylhydroperoxide (TBHP) as the initiator at low temperatures. The major products include toluic acid, toluyl aldehyde and toluyl alcohol. The MWNTs-grafted complex did not undergo any colour change during the reaction and could be easily separated and reused many times. In contrast, the neat complex, while they were active in the first cycle, was completely destroyed during the run and changed colour. They, however, gave lower conversions compared to the grafted catalyst. © 2010 The Royal Society of Chemistry.

Abstract: Dysprosium carbonates nanoparticles were synthesized by the reaction of dysprosium acetate and NaHCO3 by a sonochemical method. Dysprosium oxide nanoparticles with average size about 17 nm were prepared from calcination of Dy2(CO3)3·1.7H2O nanoparticles. Dy(OH)3 nanotubes were synthesized by sonication of Dy(OAC)3·6H2O and N2H4. The as-synthesized nanostructures were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). Photoluminescence measurement shows that the nanoparticles have two emission peaks around 17,540 cm-1 and 20,700 cm-1, which should come from the electron transition from 4F9/2 →6H15/2 levels and 4F9/2 →6H13/2 levels, respectively. The effect of calcination temperature and sonication time was investigated on the morphology and particle size of the products. The sizes could be controlled by the feeding rate of the precipitating agent (NaHCO3 and N2H4) and slower feeding rate lead to smaller nanoparticles. © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: HgTe rod-shape composed of crystalline particles has been prepared by a hydrothermal method, and characterized by means of X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transition electron microscopy (TEM). The effects of capping agents, reductants, reaction temperatures, and reaction times on crystal structures and shapes of HgTe have been investigated. The results showed that the CTAB as capping agent plays a crucial role in the hydrothermal process. The synthesis procedure is simple and uses less toxic reagents than the previously reported methods. © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: Dysprosium carbonates nanoparticles were synthesized by the reaction of Dy(CH3COO)36H2O and sodium hydroxide by a sonochemical method. Dysprosium oxide nanoparticles with average size about 12nm were prepared from calcination of Dy2(CO3) 3xH2O nanoparticles. Dy(OH)3 nanoparticles were synthesized by facial hydrothermal processing from Dy2O3 nanoparticles. The as-synthesized nanoparticles were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectrum (XPS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and photoluminescence (PL). The PL result showed one broad emission band centered at 390 nm (λex = 300nm) of the pure Dy2O3 nanoparticles. The role of surfactant, calcination temperature and sonication time were investigated on the morphology and particle size of the products. © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: Zinc oxalate, [Zn(C2O4)·2H2O] was used as a precursor to prepare zinc oxide nanotriangles by thermal decomposition. The different combinations of triphenylphosphine, and oleylamine were added as surfactants to control the particle size. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, Ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The synthesized ZnO nanoparticles have a hexagonal zincite structure. © 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: The present investigation reports, the novel synthesis of nanoparticles Ni and NiO using thermal decomposition and their physicochemical characterization. The nanoparticles Ni powder have been prepared using [bis(2-hydroxyacetophenato)nickel(II)] as precursor. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis was demonstrated nanoparticles Ni with an average diameter of about 14-22 nm. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), TEM, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. The magnetic property of Ni and NiO was studied with vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). © 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: Nanocrystalline nickel ferrite (NiFe2O4) powder was prepared by a co-precipitation method from Ni and Fe chlorides. The as-prepared samples were characterized by powder X-ray diffractometry (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM). SEM and TEM indicated that the particles were spherical with particle sizes in the range 25 ± 5 nm. The magnetic properties of the sample were measured by using a vibrating sample magnetometer, which showed that the sample exhibited typical ferromagnetic behavior at room temperature, while a finite coercivity of 245.5 Oe was present at 300 K. The saturation magnetization of the sample (23.13 emu/g) was significantly lower than that for the reported multidomain bulk particles (55 emu/g), reflecting the ultrafine nature of the sample. © 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Abstract: Co and Co3O4 nanoparticles are synthesized via a thermal decomposition method in the presence of oleylamine using a new precursor of [Bis(2-hydroxyacetophenato)cobalt(II)]. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The hysteresis loops of the obtained samples reveal the ferromagnetic behaviors of the enhanced coercivity (Hc) and decreased saturation magnetization (Ms) in contrast to their respective bulk materials. © 2009 World Scientific Publishing Company.

Abstract: Mn3O4 nanocrystals have been prepared using [bis(2-hydroxyacetophenato)manganese(II)] as precursor. Transmission electron microscopy analysis demonstrated nanocrystals Mn3O4 with an average diameter of about 20 nm. The structural study by X-ray diffraction indicates that these nanocrystals have pure tetragonal phase. The phase pure samples were characterized using X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy for Mn 2p level. The values of binding energies are consistent with the relative values reported in the literature. © 2009 World Scientific Publishing Company.

Abstract: Wurtzite ZnS nanorods were synthesized via a hydrothermal technique by adding thioglycolic acid with zinc acetate as the precursor. The as-synthesized ZnS nanorods have diameters of 40-200 nm and lengths up to 5 μm. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy, photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectra, selected area electron diffraction (SEAD), and thermogravimetric-differential thermal analysis (TG-DTA). The effect of reactant concentration, reaction temperatures and reaction times on crystal structures and shapes of ZnS have been investigated. © 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: Zinc oxide nanoparticles were successfully prepared through the decomposition of zinc acetylacetonate precursor in oleylamine in the presence of triphenylphosphine. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. © 2009 World Scientific Publishing Company.

Abstract: The present investigation reports, the novel synthesis of nanoparticles Cu and Cu2O using thermal decomposition and its physicochemical characterization. The nanoparticles copper powder have been prepared using [Bis(salicylidiminato)copper(II)], [Cu(sal)2], as precursor. Cu nanoparticles are initially formed and subsequently oxidized to form Cu2O. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis demonstrated nanoparticles Cu2O with an average diameter of about 10 nm. As-prepared copper nano-particles were characterized by X-ray diffraction measurements (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive analysis of X-rays (EDAX), and Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy (FTIR). XRD analysis revealed broad pattern for fcc crystal structure of copper metal and cubic cuprite structure for Cu2O. Optical absorption measured by UV-visible spectroscopy was used to monitor oxidation course of Cu → Cu2O and to determine the band-gap energy about 2.4 eV for Cu2O nanoshells. © 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: The present investigation reports the novel synthesis of copper nanocrystals using thermal reduction, and their physicochemical characterization. The copper nanocrystal powder has been prepared using [bis(2-hydroxyacetophenato)copper(II)] as a precursor. The effect of oleylamine and triphenylphosphine on the particle morphology has been investigated. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis has demonstrated that the copper nanocrystals have an average diameter of about 3 nm. The as-prepared copper nanocrystals were characterized by XRD, SEM, TEM, EDX, UV-Vis and FTIR. © 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Abstract: Nanocrystalline Copper aluminate (CuAl2O4) was prepared by sol-gel technique using aluminum nitrate, copper nitrate, diethylene glycol monoethyl ether and citric acid were used as precursor materials. This method starts from of the precursor complex, and involves formation of homogeneous solid intermediates, reducing atomic diffusion processes during thermal treatment. The formation of pure crystallized CuAl2O 4 nanocrystals occurred when the precursor was heat-treated at 600 °C in air for 2 h. The stages of the formation of CuAl2O 4, as well as the characterization of the resulting compounds were done using thermo-gravimetric analysis, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The products were analyzed by transmission electron microscopy and ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy to be round, about 17-26 nm in size and E g = 2.10 eV.

Abstract: ZnO nanocrystals were prepared by the thermolysis of Zn-surfactant complexes. The particle sizes of the nanocrystals were from 15 to 25 nm. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy and ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy. The synthesized ZnO nanocrystals have a hexagonal wurtzite structure. © 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: A thioglycolic acid (TGA)-assisted hydrothermal process has been developed to synthesize zinc sulfide (ZnS) nanoclusters via the reaction between a new precursor, bis(salicylaldiminato)zinc(II); [Zn(sal)2]; and thioacetamide (CH3CSNH2). X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), UV-vis spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) were employed to characterize the obtained product. Furthermore, the possible mechanism and the critical factors for the TGA-assisted hydrothermal synthesis of the ZnS nanoclusters have been preliminarily presented. © 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: [Bis(2-hydroxyacetophenato)cobalt(II)] was used as a new precursor to prepare cobalt (Co) and tricobalt tetraoxide (Co3O4) nanoparticles of 15-25 nm in average diameter by thermal decomposition. The different combinations of triphenylphosphine, and oleylamine were added as surfactants to control the particle size. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. Time-dependent FT-IR studies indicate that oxidation of the as-synthesized cobalt nanoparticles in air is slow. The valence change of cobalt from the nanoparticle sample is not observed after it is kept in hexane under air for 30 days. The magnetic property was studied with vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). The hysteresis loops of the obtained samples reveal the soft magnet behaviors the enhanced coercivity (Hc) and decreased saturation magnetization (Ms) in contrast to their respective bulk materials. © 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Abstract: Thermal decomposition process has been developed to synthesize nickel oxide (NiO) nanoclusters via the reaction between a new precursor, nickel oxalate [Ni(O4C2)(H2O)4] and oleylamine (C18H37N). The combination of triphenylphosphine (C18H15P) and C18H37N were added as surfactants to control the particle size. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy. The synthesized NiO nanoclusters have a cubic structure with average size 2-10 nm. © 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Abstract: Cobalt oxalate was used as a precursor to prepare Co3O4 nanorods by thermal decomposition. The combinations of triphenylphosphine and oleylamine were added as surfactants to control the morphology of the particles. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The diameters of Co3O4 nanorods are 20 nm and the average lengths are around 500 nm. The hysteresis loops of the obtained samples reveal the ferromagnetic behaviors, the enhanced coercivity (Hc) and decreased saturation magnetization (Ms) in contrast to their respective bulk materials. The study provides a simple and efficient route to synthesize Co3O4 nanorods at low temperature. © 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Abstract: Different morphologies of bismuth sulfide (Bi2S3) nanostructures including nanoparticles, nanorods, nanobelts and nanoflowers have been prepared via a simple hydrothermal reaction between bismuth nitrate, Bi(NO3)3·5H2O, and thioglycolic acid (TGA) at relatively low temperature. Products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy, photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectra. The effect of reactant concentration, molar ratio of TGA to the bismuth nitrate, temperature and reaction time on the morphology, particle sizes and phases of nanocrystalline Bi2S3 products has been investigated. © 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: The simple preparation of Co3O4 nanoparticles from a solid organometallic molecular precursor N-N′-bis(salicylaldehyde)-1,2-phenylenediimino cobalt(II); Co(salophen) has been achieved via two simple steps: firstly, the Co(salophen) precursor was precipitated from the reaction of cobalt(II) acetate and N-N′-bis(salicylaldehyde)-1,2-phenylenediimino; H2salophen; in propanol under nitrogen condition; then, cubic phase Co3O4 nanoparticles with the size of mostly 30-50 nm could be produced by thermal treatment of the Co(salophen) in air at 773 K for 5 h. The as-synthesized products were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and scanning electronic microscopy (SEM). These results confirm that the resulting oxide was pure single-crystalline Co3O4 nanoparticles. The optical property test indicates that the absorption peak of the nanoparticles shifts towards short wavelength, and the blue shift phenomenon might be ascribed to the quantum effect. The hysteresis loops of the obtained samples reveal the ferromagnetic behaviors the enhanced coercivity (Hc) and decreased saturation magnetization (Ms) in contrast to their respective bulk materials. © 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: Zinc oxide nanoparticles were successfully prepared through the decomposition of zinc acetylacetonate precursor in oleylamine in the presence of triphenylphosphine. The products were characterised by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. The photoluminescence of ZnO nanoparticles was studied by exciting the sample with an ArF laser (193 nm). A strong blue-shift of the emission band of ZnO, suggesting a strong quantum size effect, is observed. © 2009 Inderscience Enterprises Ltd.

Abstract: [Bis(salicylidene)nickel(II)] was used as a precursor to prepare nickel sulfides nanoparticles of average size 20 nm by a chemical process in oleylamine. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-vis) and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. Magnetization measurement indicates that both of the α-NiS and Ni3S4 nanoparticles show pramagnetism due to the size effect. © 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Abstract: Bright blue ceramic CoAl2O4 nanocrystals was prepared by sol-gel technique using aluminum nitrate, cobalt nitrates, diethylene glycol monoethyl ether, and citric acid were used as precursor materials. This method starts from of the precursor complex, and involves formation of homogeneous solid intermediates, reducing atomic diffusion processes during thermal treatment. The formation of pure crystallized CoAl2O4 nanocrystals occurred when the precursor was heat-treated at 350 °C in air for 2 h. The stages of the formation of CoAl2O4, as well as the characterization of the resulting compounds were done using thermo-gravimetric analysis, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The structure, coloration, particle size, and temperature of formation of the resulting CoAl2O4 phases were found to depend on the precursors and methods used for preparation and the calcination temperature. The UV-vis spectra presented three bands at 538,575 and 617 nm attributed to the Co2+ spin transitions in tetrahedral sites. UV-vis spectroscopy of the samples allows to compare the band shift with the size variation. These results improve that the bright blue nanopigment was obtained at the presence of citric acid as capping agent. The lowest temperature for preparation of the blue cobalt aluminate is about 400 °C. This temperature is much lower than that needed for preparation of the compound through traditional solid-state reactions (above 1,000 °C). © 2009 Springer Science+Business Media, LLC.

Abstract: A novel manganese coordination polymer [Mn(Pht)(H2O)]n as a precursor was obtained by chemical precipitation involving an aqueous solution of anhydrous manganese acetate and phthalate anion as a potential O-banded ligand. Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) results proved that phthalate anions coordinate to metal cations as a chelating bidentate ligand, making polymeric structure. The Mn2O3 nanostructures have been prepared via thermal decomposition of as-prepared manganese phthalate polymers as precursor in the presence of oleic acid (OA) and triphenylphosphine (TPP) as a stabilizer and capping. Different approaches such as FT-IR, X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were applied to characterize the products. TEM images and XRD analysis indicated that the as-synthesized chain-like Mn2O3 has a crystal phase of cubic syngony with a mean size of ∼40 nm. © 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: The present study reports the preparation and characterization of PbO nanocrystals obtained via a thermal decomposition route. The PbO nanocrystals were synthesized using lead oxalate powder as a precursor. Nanostructured products were investigated by means of XRD, TEM, FT-IR and XPS. The XRD results indicate that tetragonal phase β-PbO with a particle size of about 30-45 nm was obtained when the intermediate precipitate was calcined at 500 °C. © 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Abstract: Monodisperse Co3O4 nanoparticles are synthesised via a thermal decomposition method in the presence of triphenylphosphine and oleylamine using a new precursor [Bis(salicylidiminato)cobalt(II)]. The products were characterised by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transformed infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The hysteresis loops of the obtained samples reveal the ferromagnetic behaviours the enhanced coercivity (Hc) and decreased saturation magnetisation (Ms) in contrast to their respective bulk materials. © 2009 Inderscience Enterprises Ltd.

Abstract: The present investigation reports, the novel synthesis of nanocrystals CdS using thermal decomposition of [bis(salicylaldehydato)cadmium(II)], as a new precursor, and elemental sulfur in oleylamine. The as-synthesized CdS crystals have diameters about 10 nm. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy and Fourier transformed infrared (FT-IR) spectra. The results of this paper show that the shape and size of cadmium sulfide nanocrystals can be controlled systematically by adjusting certain reaction parameters, such as the reactant concentration, the reaction temperature and the reaction time. Cadmium sulfide nanoparticles and nanorods with different lengths have been successfully prepared. © 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Abstract: Flower-like CdS nanostructure was obtained by a PEG2000 and thioglycolic acid (TGA) assisted hydrothermal process at relatively low temperature. Products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy, photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectra, and thermogravimetric-differential thermal analysis (TG-DTA). Results show that TGA played a significant role in the formation of CdS nanostructures. A preliminary explanation of the mechanism is proposed. © 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: Zirconia (ZrO2) nanoparticles have been synthesized through the thermolysis of bis-aqua, tris-2-hydroxyacetophenato zirconium (IV) nitrate, [Zr(HAP)3(H2O)2](NO3), as a precursor in oleylamine (C18H37N) and triphenylphosphine (C18H15P). The combination of C18H37N and C18H15P was added to act as surfactants to control the particle size. C18H37N and C18H15P play an important role in preventing aggregation of ZrO2 nanoparticles. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy to depict the phase and morphology. The synthesized ZrO2 nanoparticles have a cubic structure. The FT-IR spectrum showed the purity of obtained cubic phase ZrO2 nanocrystals. © 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Abstract: The present investigation reports, the synthesis of manganese oxide (α-Mn2O3) nanobundles using thermal decomposition and its physicochemical characterization. The α-Mn2O3 nanobundles have been prepared using manganese oxalate dihydrate powders as precursor in the presence of oleylamine and triphenylphosphine as solvent and capping agent. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis demonstrated Mn2O3 nanobundles compose of nanospheres with diameter 30 nm. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. Manganese oxide nanocrystals have been prepared under different condition. The controlled experimental results showed that the use of oleylamine and triphenylphosphine as the solvent and capping agent in the chemical process played important role in the formation of the final products. © 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: Novel cadmium sulfide/organic composite hollow spheres composed of sword-like nanorods were synthesized via a simple reaction between cadmium salts and thioglycolic acid (TGA) at room temperature. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), selected area electron diffraction (SEAD) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectra. Thermal stability of the organic composite was investigated. CdS/organic composite would decompose into pure wurtzite CdS through hydrothermal treatment. Effect of the cadmium source on the formation of the CdS/organic composite was investigated. Photoluminescence (PL) was used to study the optical properties of CdS/organic composite and pure CdS. © 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: Pure zirconium oxide (ZrO2) nanocrystals with diameters 10-30 nm are fabricated from bis-aqua, tris-acetylacetonato zirconium(IV) nitrate; [Zr(acac)3(H2O)2](NO3); by thermal decomposition. The different combinations of oleylamine, or polyethyleneglycol (PEG) and triphenylphosphine, were added as surfactants to control the particle size. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) to depict the phase and morphology. The synthesized ZrO2 nanoparticles have a cubic structure. The FT-IR spectrum showed the purity of obtained ZrO2 nanocrystals with cubic phase. The UV-Visible absorption peak for ZrO2 was observed at 233 nm (5.3 eV in photon energy). The band at 363 nm for cubic ZrO2 nanocrystals was found. © 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: This study focuses on the preparation and characterization of single phase NiO nanoparticles. At first, nickel-o-phthalate complexes as precursor were synthesized through semisolid phase reaction method and then NiO nanoparticles were obtained via a solid-state decomposition procedure of layered coordination nickle-o-phthalate complexes formulated as [Ni(pht)(H2O)2] and [Ni(pht)2]. In addition, the effects of calcination temperature and metal-to-ligand ratio on the particle size and morphology of NiO were investigated. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) was applied to determine the thermal behavior of complexes. The crystalline structure of products by X-ray diffractometer (XRD), morphology of particles by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were studied. The composition of as-prepared sample was studied by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) spectra. Analysis of FT-IR spectra confirmed the composition of products. The magnetic property was studied with vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). © 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: Transition metal (M = Mn(II), Co(II), Ni(II) and Cu(II)) complexes with octahydro-Schiff base (H4-N4O4) = 2,7,13,18-tetramethyl-3,6,14,17-tetraazatricyclo-[17.3.1.1]-tetracosa-1(23),2,6,8(24),9,11,13,17,19,21-decaene-9,11,20,22-tetraol; H4([H]8-N4O4) = 2,7,13,,18-tetramethyl-3,6,14,17-tetraazatricyclo-[17.13.1.1.]-tetracosa-1(23),8(24),9,11,19,21-hexane-9,11,20,22-tetraol) have been encapsulated in nanopores of zeolite-Y; [M([H]8-N4O4)]@NaY; with Flexible Ligand Method (FLM) for the first time. The new Host-Guest Nanocomposite Materials (HGNM) was characterized by several techniques: chemical analysis, spectroscopic methods (DRS, FT-IR and UV/Vis), BET technique, conductometric and magnetic measurements. The catalytic activities for oxidation of cyclohexane with HGNM complexes are reported. Zeolite encapsulated octahydro-Schiff base copper(II) complex; [Cu([H]8-N4O4)]@NaY; was found to be more active than the corresponding cobalt(II), manganese(II) and nickel(II) complexes for cyclohexane oxidation. The catalytic properties of the complexes are influenced by their geometry and by the steric environment of the active sites. HGNM are stable enough to be reused and are suitable to be utilized as partial oxidation catalysts. The encapsulated catalysts systems; [M([H]8-N4O4)]@NaY; were more active than the corresponding neat complexes; [M([H]8-N4O4))]. © 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: [Bis(acetylacetonato)zinc(II)] was used as a precursor to prepare zinc oxide nanoparticles of 12-20 nm in average diameter by thermal decomposition. The different combinations of triphenylphosphine, (C18H15P) and oleylamine, (C18H37N) were added as surfactants to control the particle size. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL), FT-IR spectroscopy, surface area, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to depict the phase and morphology. The synthesized ZnO nanoparticles have a hexagonal zincite structure. The photoluminescence of ZnO nanoparticles was studied by exciting the sample with an ArF laser (193 nm). A strong blue-shift of the emission band of ZnO, suggesting a strong quantum size effect, is observed. © 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: [Bis(salicylidene)cobalt(II)] was used as a precursor to prepare cobalt nanoparticles of average diameter 25-35 nm by thermal decomposition. The different combinations of triphenylphosphine and oleylamine were added as surfactants to control the particle size. The resultant samples are characterized by X-ray diffractometer (XRD) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) to depict the phase and morphology. The hysteresis loops of the obtained samples reveal the soft magnet behaviors the enhanced coercivity (Hc) and decreased saturation magnetization (Ms) in contrast to their respective bulk materials. © 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: Copper oxalate was used as a precursor to prepare metallic copper nanoparticles by thermal decomposition. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and UV-Vis spectroscopy. XRD analysis revealed broad pattern for fcc crystal structure of copper metal. The particle size by use of Debye-Scherrer's equation was calculated to be about 40 nm. © 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Abstract: The present investigation reports on the novel synthesis of Mn3O4 nanoparticles using thermal decomposition and their physicochemical characterization. The Mn3O4 nanoparticle powder has been prepared using [bis(salicylidiminato)manganese(II)] as a precursor. The effect of oleyl amine and triphenylphosphine on the particle morphology has been investigated. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis demonstrated Mn3O4 nanoparticles with an average diameter of about 25 nm. The structural study by X-ray diffraction (XRD) indicates that these nanoparticles have a pure tetragonal phase. The phase pure samples were characterized using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) for both Mn 2p and Mn 3s levels. The values of binding energies are consistent with related values reported in the literature. © 2008.

Abstract: Transition metal (M = Mn(II), Co(II), Ni(II) and Cu(II)) complexes with tetrahydro-salophen (salophen = N,N-bis-(salycilidene)-1,2-phenylenediamine; H2[H4salophen] = 2-({2-[(2-hydroxybenzyl)amino]anilino}methyl)phenol) have been encapsulated in nanopores of zeolite-Y; [M(H4salophen)]-NaY; with Flexible Ligand Method for the first time. The new Host-Guest Nanocomposite Materials (HGNM) was characterized by several techniques: chemical analysis, spectroscopic methods (DRS, FTIR and UV/Vis), BET technique, conductometric and magnetic measurements. The catalytic activities for oxidation of cyclohexane with HGNM complexes are reported. Zeolite-encapsulated tetrahydro-salophen copper(II) complexes; [Cu(H4salophen)]-NaY; was found to be more active than the corresponding cobalt(II), manganese(II) and nickel(II) complexes for cyclohexane oxidation. The catalytic properties of the complexes are influenced by their geometry and by the steric environment of the active sites. HGNM are stable enough to be reused and are suitable to be utilized as partial oxidation catalysts. The encapsulated catalysts systems; [M(H4salophen)]-NaY; were more active than the corresponding neat complexes; [M(H4salophen)]. © 2008 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Abstract: Nanocrystalline CdS with different morphologies and particle sizes was obtained via a simple hydrothermal reaction between Cd(NO3)2·4H2O and thioglycolic acid (TGA) at relatively low temperature. Products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy, photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectra, and thermogravimetric-differential thermal analysis (TG-DTA). The effect of reactant concentration, molar ratio of TGA to the cadmium nitrate, temperature and reaction time on the morphology, particle sizes and phase of nanocrystalline CdS products has been investigated. © 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: Nanodimensional microreactor containing (3,10-dialkyl-dibenzo-1,3,5,8,10, 12-hexaazacyclotetradecane)copper(II) complexes have been prepared by the one-pot template synthesis of formaldehyde and 1,2-phenylenediamine (1,2-phen) with alkyl and benzyl amine within the pores of zeolite-Y. The copper(II) complexes were entrapped in the supercage of Y-zeolite by a two-step process in the liquid phase: (i) inclusion of a copper(II) precursor complex, [Cu(1,2-phen)2]2+-NaY, and (ii) template condensation of the copper(II) precursor complex with the formaldehyde and amine. The spectra of the neat and encapsulated complexes show that the four secondary nitrogen atoms are coordinated to the copper(II) ion. Encapsulated copper(II) complex is catalytically very efficient as compared to other neat complexes for the partial oxidation of benzyl alcohol with hydrogen peroxide as oxidant and is stable to be recycled without much deterioration. © 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: A new copper(II) complexes of 14-membered hexaaza macrocyclic ligands; 3,10-dialkyl-dibenzo-1,3,5,8,10,12-hexaazacyclotetradecane, [Cu(R 2Bzo2[14]aneN6)]2+ (R = H, Me, Et, Bu, Benzyl); have been prepared by the in situ one-pot template synthesis (IOPTS) of formaldehyde and 1,2-phenylenediamine with alkyl or benzyl amine in the presence of copper(II) ion. The complexes of a hexaaza macrocycle have been characterized by elemental analyses, IR, FAB, UV-Vis, and H NMR spectroscopy, conductometric and magnetic measurements. © 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: New square-planar Ni(II) complexes of 14-membered hexaaza macrocyclic ligands {dibenzo-1,3,5,8,10,12-hexaazacyclotetradecane, [Ni(Bzo2[14]aneN6)](ClO4)2 (1); 3,10-dimethyl-, [Ni(Me2Bzo2[14]aneN6)](ClO4)2 (2); 3,10-diethyl-, [Ni(Et2Bzo2[14]aneN6)](ClO4)2 (3); 3,10-dibutyl-, [Ni(Bu2Bzo2[14]aneN6)](ClO4)2 (4); 3,10-dibenzyl-, dibenzo-1,3,5,8,10,12-hexaazacyclotetradecane [Ni((benzyl)2Bzo2[14]aneN6)](ClO4)2 (5); [Ni(Bzo2[14]aneN6)](PF6)2 (6); [Ni(Me2Bzo2[14]aneN6)](PF6)2 (7); [Ni(Et2Bzo2[14]aneN6)](PF6)2 (8); [Ni(Bu2Bzo2[14]aneN6)](PF6)2 (9); [Ni((benzyl)2Bzo2[14]aneN6)](PF6)2 (10); [Ni(Bzo2[14]aneN6)Cl2] (11); [Ni(Me2Bzo2[14]aneN6)Cl2] (12); [Ni(Et2Bzo2[14]aneN6)Cl2] (13); [Ni(Bu2Bzo2[14]aneN6)Cl2](14); [Ni((benzyl)2Bzo2[14]aneN6)Cl2] (15); [Ni(Bzo2[14]aneN6)(NCS)2] (16); [Ni(Me2Bzo2[14]aneN6)(NCS)2] (17); [Ni(Et2Bzo2[14]aneN6)(NCS)2] (18); [Ni(Bu2Bzo2[14]aneN6)(NCS)2] (19); [Ni((benzyl)2Bzo2[14]aneN6)(NCS)2] (20)} have been prepared by the in situ one-pot template synthesis (IOPTS) of formaldehyde and 1,2-phenylenediamine with alkyl amine or benzyl amine in the presence of the nickel(II) ion. The complexes of the hexaaza macrocycle have been characterized by elemental analyses, IR, FAB, UV-Vis and 1H NMR spectroscopy, conductometric and magnetic measurements. The nickel(II) complexes {[Ni(R2Bzo2[14]aneN6)](ClO4)2 (1-5) and [Ni(R2Bzo2[14]aneN6)](PF6)2 (6-10)} have square-planar coordination geometry in the solid state and in nitromethane. The spectra of all complexes show that the four secondary nitrogen atoms are coordinated to the nickel(II) ion. Synthesis, characterization and solution behavior of the nickel(II) complexes of hexaaza macrocycle (1-6) are reported. The stereochemistry around the metal ions in the {[Ni(R2Bzo2[14]aneN6)(NCS)2] and "[Ni(R2Bzo2[14]aneN6)Cl2]}" complexes is octahedral. © 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Abstract: Nanoscale microreactor containing "3,10-dialkyl-dibenzo-1,3,5,8,10,12- hexaazacyclotetradecane, [Ni(R2Bzo2[14]aneN 6)]2+, R = H, Me, Et, Bu and benzyl" was successfully prepared by the in situ one-pot template synthesis (IOPTS) of formaldehyde and 1,2-phenylenediamine (1,2-phen) with alkyl and benzyl amine within the nanodimensional pores of zeolite-Y. The new host-guest nanocomposite materials "[Ni(R2Bzo2[14]aneN6)]2+- NaY" were characterized by several techniques: chemical analysis and spectroscopic methods (FT-IR, UV/Vis, XRD, BET, DRS) and then were used for oxidation of cyclohexene with molecular oxygen. © 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: New square-planar manganese(II), copper(II), nickel(II) and cobalt(II) complexes of a tetradentate Schiff-base ligand "N,N-bis(salicylidene)-2,2-dimethylpropane-1,3-diamine, H2[salpnMe2]" have been prepared and characterized by elemental analyses, IR, UV-Vis, conductometric and magnetic measurements. The results suggest that the symmetrical Schiff-base is a bivalent anion with tetradentate N2O2 donors derived from the phenolic oxygen and azomethine nitrogen. The formulae was found to be [M(salpnMe2)] for the 1:1 non-electrolytic complexes. Alumina-supported metal complexes (ASMC; [M(salpnMe2)/Al2O3]) catalyze the oxidation of cyclohexene with tert-buthylhydroperoxide (TBHP) and hydrogen peroxide. Oxidation of cyclohexene with TBHP gave 2-cyclohexene-1-one, 2-cyclohexene-1-ol and 1-(tert-butylperoxy)-2-cyclohexene whereas, oxidation with H2O2 resulted in the formation of cyclohexene oxide and cyclohexene-1,2-diol. Manganese(II) complex supported on alumina "[Mn(salpnMe2]-Al2O3" shows significantly higher catalytic activity than other catalysts. © 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: New square-planar manganese(II), copper(II), nickel(II) and cobalt(II) complexes of a tetradentate Schiff-base ligand "N,N′-bis-(α- methylsalicylidene)-2,2-dimethylpropane-1,3-diamine", H2[Me 2salpnMe2] have been prepared and characterized by elemental analyses, IR, UV-vis, conductometric and magnetic measurements. The results suggest that the symmetrical Schiff-base is a bivalent anion with tetradentate ONNO donors derived from the phenolic oxygen and azomethine nitrogen. The formulae was found to be [M(Me2salpnMe2)] for the 1:1 non-electrolytic complexes. Alumina-supported metal complexes (ASMC); [M(Me2salpnMe2]/Al2O3; catalyze the oxidation of cyclohexene with tert-buthylhydroperoxide (TBHP) and hydrogen peroxide. Oxidation of cyclohexene with TBHP gave 2-cyclohexene-1-one, 2-cyclohexene-2-ol and 1-(tert-butylperoxy)-2-cyclohexene whereas, oxidation with H2O2 resulted in the formation of cyclohexene oxide and cyclohexene-1,2-diol. Manganese(II) complex supported on alumina "[Mn(Me2salpnMe2]/Al2O3" shows significantly higher catalytic activity than other catalysts. © 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: During the last decade, studies on the isolation, characterization and catalytic activity of transition metal complexes covalently grafted on various carbon nanotubes (CNTs) received considerable attention because of their specific catalytic applications when compared to homogeneous complexes [1,2]. The complex loaded on CNTs is more suitable as support for the Schiff-base complex than other support like as, high-surface-area activated carbon because the latter exhibits some adventitious activity. Nevertheless, any work in [Co(II)(OH)2-salophen] Schiff-base covalently grafted on MWNTs didn't report. In this paper, Co(II)[(OH)2-salophen] (N,N′-bis(4- hydroxysalicylidene)phenylene-1, 2-diamine) complex was covalently grafted on the chemical modification of multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWNTs); [Co((OH) 2-salophen)]@MWNTs] (Fig. 1). The cobalt(II) Schiff-base complex covalently anchored on modified MWNTs was characterized by different techniques. The catalytic activity of the novel nanotube based materials was tested in the epoxidation of cyclohexene in the isobutyraldehyde/air system using acetonitrile as solvent and very high conversion was obtained. © 2010 IEEE.

Abstract: The use of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and other carbon materials as support for homogeneous catalysts is an untapped area, despite of their broad use as catalysts and as supports for metals in its reduced state. Conversely, CNTs present several advantages when compared to inorganic supports; they are thermally stable, resistant to chemical attack in acid and basic media [1,2]. In the present study, hydroxyl functionalized copper(II) Schiff-base; [Cu((OH)2-salophen)], [(OH)2-salophen] = (N,N′-bis(4-hydroxysalicylidene)phenylene-1,2-diamine); has been covalently anchored on modified multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWNTs); [Cu((OH)2-salophen)]@MWNTs (Fig. 1). The new modified MWNTs have been characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron (XPS), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, Diffuse reflectance (DRS), FT-IR spectroscopy and elemental analysis. © 2010 IEEE.

Abstract: The present investigation reports the synthesis of SnO2 nanoparticle using thermal decomposition and characterization of their physicochemical characterization. The SnO2 nanoparticle powder has been prepared using [bis(2-hydroxyacetophenato)tin(II)], [Sn(HAP)2]; as precursor. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis was demonstrated that SnO2 nanoparticle with an average diameter of about 14-22 nm. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. Also the novel precursor was thermal treated in solid-state reaction in different temperature, 350, 450, and 550 °C. © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: Dysprosium carbonates nanoparticles were synthesized by the reaction of Dy(CH3COO)3·6H2O and sodium hydroxide by a sonochemical method. Dysprosium oxide nanoparticles with average size about 12 nm were prepared from calcination of Dy2(CO3)3·xH2O nanoparticles. Dy(OH)3 nanoparticles were synthesized by facial hydrothermal processing from Dy2O3 nanoparticles. The as-synthesized nanoparticles were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectrum (XPS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and photoluminescence (PL). The PL result showed one broad emission band centered at 390 nm (λex = 300 nm) of the pure Dy2O3 nanoparticles. The role of surfactant, calcination temperature and sonication time were investigated on the morphology and particle size of the products. © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: ZnO nanosphericals and nanobundles well dispersion have been synthesized using [(N,N′-bis(salicylaldehydo)ethylenediamine)zinc(II)]; [Zn(salen)] as precursor via two methods. Nanosphericals of ZnO has been prepared via thermal decomposition of [Zn(salen)] in the presence of oleylamine at 290 °C for 90 min. Also nanobundle of ZnO has been synthesized via thermolysis of [Zn(salen)] in the air at 500 °C for 5 h. The as-synthesized products were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and scanning electronic microscopy (SEM). The room temperature photoluminescence (PL) spectra of both nanostructures are dominated by the green emission attributed to the oxygen vacancy (VO) related donor-acceptor transition. Presence of several infrared (IR) inactive vibrational modes in the Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) absorption spectra of the samples indicates a breakdown of translational symmetry in the nanostructures induced by native defects. © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Abstract: Nano-sized nickel selenide powders have been successfully synthesized via an improved hydrothermal route based on the reaction between NiCl2·6H2O, SeCl4 and hydrazine (N2H4·H2O) in water, in present of cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) as surfactant, at various conditions. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and X-ray energy dispersive spectroscopy analysis. Effects of temperature, reaction time and reductant agent on the morphology, the particle sizes and the phase of the final products have been investigated. It was found that the phase and morphology of the products could be greatly influenced by these parameters. The synthesis procedure is simple and uses less toxic reagents than the previously reported methods. Photoluminescence (PL) was used to study the optical properties of NiSe samples. © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.