Quantum sized blue light emitting ZnO nanoparticles: Synthesis, characterization and biomedical applications

Abstract

The synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles via the hydrolysis and condensation method is described in this study. Characterization of the synthesized nanoparticles through X-ray diffraction, optical absorption, photoluminescence, and transmission electron microscopy discloses highly stable particles with an exceptionally small and uniform size distribution, showing a discrete quantum size effect. These nanoparticles show robust blue emission and demonstrate potent antibacterial activity against a spectrum of pathogenic bacteria, making them capable candidates for combating infectious diseases. Additionally, they display noteworthy anti-cancer properties against HT-29 colon cancer cell lines. This dual functionality of the ZnO nanoparticles holds significant promise for the development of affordable therapies in biomedical applications, as well as for potential applications in electronics.

Keywords

• Zinc oxide nanoparticles
• Quantum size effect
• Antibacterial activity
• Anti-cancer properties
• Biomedical applications