CTAB-Stabilized ZnO, CuO and NiO Nanostructures: Comparative Studies of Their Physicochemical Properties for Potential Applications
Journal of Nano Research, vol.93, pp.31-40, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 93
- Publication Date: 2026
- Doi Number: 10.4028/p-9pmcws
- Journal Name: Journal of Nano Research
- Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Compendex, INSPEC, Materials Science & Engineering Collection (ProQuest), Technology Collection (ProQuest)
- Page Numbers: pp.31-40
- Keywords: copper oxide, CTAB, nickel oxide, sol-gel auto combustion, zinc oxide
- Yıldız Technical University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
This study presents the biogenic synthesis and comprehensive characterization of CTAB-assisted ZnO, CuO and NiO NPs engineered for properties optimization. The CTAB, acting as a reducing and stabilizing agent, was successfully used to fabricate the three functional oxides with high structural purity and crystallinity, as confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results show that CTAB-NiO NPs have the highest crystallite size (5.35nm), followed by CTAB-CuO NPs (4.16) and then CTAB-ZnO NPs (3.73). The observed tensile microstrains vary from 0.0823, 0.1348 and 0.0051 for CTAB-assisted ZnO, CuO and NiO NPs, respectively, with CuO NPs showing the highest value. The observed lattice strain and crystallite-size variations directly influenced the electronic structure, enhancing charge separation and mobility. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) revealed strong CTAB–nanoparticle interactions through characteristic functional groups, indicating efficient capping, improved stability, and enhanced biocompatibility. UV–Vis analysis demonstrated intense absorption in the visible region (294-295 nm) and tunable energy band gaps with CTAB-NiO NPs, showing the highest value (3.50eV), followed by CTAB-ZnO (3.48 eV) and then CTAB-CuO (2.05 eV). It establishes a clear structure–property relationship between surface chemistry, crystallinity and optical performance. In parallel, the presence of biopolymer functional groups and the controlled surface architecture supported favorable biological interactions, suggesting strong potential applications. Overall, this work offers a sustainable synthesis strategy and a mechanistic understanding of how physicochemical features collectively dictate the functional performance of biobased nanomaterials. The findings position these bio-based hybrid systems as promising multifunctional platforms for next-generation technologies.