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Abstract
Radiation exposure induces defects in the crystal structure, leading to alterations in the structural, optical, and morphological properties of metal oxides. These irradiated metal oxides have found extensive use in various household applications. In this particular investigation, carbon-coated nickel cobalt oxide/rGO nanocomposites were synthesized through ultrasonication. Subsequently, these nanocomposites were subjected to three different doses of gamma radiation using a 60Co source. Both un-irradiated and irradiated samples were subjected to characterization using FTIR, SEM, XRD, and UV-Vis spectroscopy.
The FTIR analysis confirmed the presence of a spinel-type structure in NiCo2O4. SEM analysis revealed the presence of crumbled sheets of rGO, and the irradiation process caused a transformation of these stacked sheets into thinner sheets. XRD analysis indicated a decrease in crystalline size and an increase in dislocation density with higher doses of gamma irradiation. UV-Vis spectroscopy demonstrated a reduction in both direct and indirect optical band gaps as a result of gamma irradiation. Furthermore, it was observed that Urbach energy and refractive index increased with gamma irradiation. Based on these findings, it can be concluded that gamma irradiation has a significant impact on the morphological, structural, and optical properties of NiCo2O4/rGO@C nanocomposites.
Data availability statement
The article contains all the supporting information for the study’s conclusions.
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No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).
Additional information
Notes on contributors
Bushra Shaheen
Miss Bushra Shaheen has successfully earned her Master of Philosophy degree in 2023 from the Institute of Physics at The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Pakistan. She is currently in the process of preparing for her Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) studies. Her research endeavors have primarily revolved around the subject of gamma irradiation applied to nanoscale materials. Additionally, Ms. Shaheen possesses a notable proficiency in graphic design, computer skills, and expertise in digital marketing.
Nusrat Shaheen
Miss Nusrat Shaheen is presently engaged in the pursuit of her Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in the field of Physical Chemistry at the Institute of Chemistry, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Pakistan. Her research endeavors are primarily concentrated on the investigation of nanomaterials and the principles of nanoscience, specifically with applications in wastewater treatment and electrochemical systems. Ms. Shaheen has significantly contributed to the academic discourse, with numerous publications featured in various journals published by Elsevier. She earned her Master of Philosophy (M.Phil) degree in 2019, having conducted research at the Institute of Chemistry, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Pakistan. During her M.Phil program, her work centered on the photocatalytic assessment of nanostructures derived from transition metal oxides, synthesized via the wet chemical route.
Muhammad Naeem Anjum
Dr. Muhammad Naeem Anjum currently holds the position of Professor at the Institute of Physics, Bahauddin Zakariya University Multan, Pakistan. He pursued a Post-Doctorate at McGill University, Canada, focusing on quality assurance and risk management in radiation oncology and effect of ionizing radiations on nanomaterials with a diverse academic and research background, Dr. Anjum has held teaching positions at various institutions and contributed to clinical aspects of radiation therapy. He is a member of the Canadian Organization of Medical Physicists and has an extensive publication record in peer-reviewed journals. His research interests include medical radiation physics, intensity-modulated radiotherapy, quality assurance, and nanophysics. Additionally, Dr. Anjum has supervised numerous research degrees at both Ph.D. and M.Phil. levels.