BaO2/Mn2O3/ZnO/BaMnO3 nanocomposite: structural, optical, spectral, morphological and antibacterial properties

Abstract

This work presents the inaugural synthesis and detailed characterization of a novel BaO₂/Mn₂O₃/ZnO/BaMnO₃ nanocomposite fabricated via a straightforward co-precipitation technique, utilizing solely distilled water as the solvent, followed by calcination at 500 °C for two hours. This eco-friendly approach marks a notable improvement over conventional methods by eliminating the use of harmful organic solvents. Comprehensive analyses, including XRD, SEM, EDX, TEM, TGA, and UV-Vis spectroscopy were employed to elucidate the structural, morphological, optical, and thermal features of the synthesized material. XRD results confirmed the successful formation of the composite phase with an average crystallite size below 85 nm. EDX spectra verified the presence of constituent elements (Ba, Mn, Zn, O) with no detectable contaminants. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) measurements further supported the synthesis of the corresponding oxide phases. Optical investigations indicated a band gap value of approximately 2.74 eV. Thermal analysis demonstrated remarkable stability, signifying suitability for applications involving elevated temperatures. Antibacterial efficacy was assessed against Gram-negative E. coli and Gram-positive S. aureus through the disc diffusion assay. The nanocomposite displayed pronounced antibacterial activity, yielding a zone of inhibition measuring 13 mm against S. aureus. These findings underscore the potential of the material in thermal sterilization applications and as antimicrobial coatings within healthcare and industrial settings. Future work will delve into the antibacterial mechanism and expand application-oriented studies.