Synthesis and Characterization of Al–Doped Manganese Oxide Nanoparticles   

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ABSTRACT

Aluminum-doped manganese oxide (Al-doped MnO₂) nanoparticles were successfully synthesized using the chemical precipitation method. Manganese chloride tetrahydrate (MnCl₂·4H₂O) and aluminum sulfate (Al₂(SO₄)₃) were utilized as precursor materials, with sodium hydroxide (NaOH) serving as the precipitating agent. Characterization techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and UV-Vis spectroscopy were employed to analyze the structural, morphological, and optical properties of the synthesized nanoparticles. XRD analysis confirmed a tetragonal MnO₂ phase, with crystallite sizes ranging from 49.75 nm to 92.71 nm. SEM and TEM images revealed that the nanoparticles exhibited a uniform morphology with slight agglomeration, with individual particle sizes ranging from 13.34 nm to 22.23 nm. The incorporation of aluminum was validated through EDX, which demonstrated a homogeneous distribution of dopant atoms within the MnO₂ matrix. UV-Vis spectroscopy indicated a direct bandgap of 3.79 eV, suggesting significant optoelectronic applicability. The enhanced electrical conductivity, structural stability, and catalytic activity of Al-doped MnO₂ highlight its potential for diverse applications in energy storage devices, supercapacitors, and photocatalysis. This study underscores the effectiveness of aluminum doping in modifying the physicochemical properties of MnO₂, paving the way for its integration into next-generation electronic and catalytic systems.

Significance of the Study:

This study demonstrates the successful synthesis of aluminum-doped manganese oxide (Al–doped MnO₂) nanoparticles using a chemical precipitation method. The incorporation of aluminum enhances the structural stability, electrical conductivity, and catalytic efficiency of MnO₂, making it a strong candidate for energy storage and photocatalytic applications. The findings contribute to the development of next-generation nanomaterials with improved physicochemical properties, paving the way for advancements in supercapacitors, optoelectronics, and environmental remediation technologies.

Summary of the Study:

Al–doped MnO₂ nanoparticles were synthesized and characterized using XRD, SEM, TEM, EDX, and UV-Vis spectroscopy. Structural analysis confirmed a tetragonal MnO₂ phase, with crystallite sizes between 49.75 nm and 92.71 nm. Morphological studies revealed uniformly distributed nanoparticles with sizes ranging from 13.34 nm to 22.23 nm. EDX analysis validated the successful incorporation of aluminum, while optical characterization indicated a direct bandgap of 3.79 eV, suggesting potential optoelectronic applications. The enhanced conductivity and catalytic activity of Al-doped MnO₂ highlight its promising applications in supercapacitors, energy storage, and photocatalysis.