Biogenic synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles, calculation of structural parameters from XRD data: use as filler in chitosan composites

Yağmur H. K., Kaya İ.

Composite Interfaces, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Publication Date: 2026
  • Doi Number: 10.1080/09276440.2026.2631913
  • Journal Name: Composite Interfaces
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Compendex, INSPEC
  • Keywords: Biogenic, crystallite size, green synthesis, Maclura pomifera, Osage orange, thermal analysis
  • Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

This study focuses on synthesizing ZnO particles from leaf extracts of Maclura pomifera (Osage orange) utilizing a green synthesis method. The characterization techniques used in this research included FTIR, SEM-EDX, TG-DTA, and XRD. The particle sizes were measured using Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS). The optical band gap of the ZnO was determined to be 2.41 eV, calculated via the Tauc method from UV-Vis spectrum data. Additionally, parameters such as crystallite size, dislocation density, and microstrain were assessed through XRD analysis. The resulting biogenic ZnO particles were incorporated as additives in composites with chitosan serving as a filler, resulting in two formulations: CN/Zn5 and CN/Zn10 composites. EDX analysis revealed the composition of the biogenic ZnO particles, consisting of 74.21% zinc and 25.79% oxygen by weight. Thermogravimetric analyses were conducted to calculate the limit oxygen index (LOI), heat-resistance index (THRI), and the properties of the CN, CN/Zn5, and CN/Zn10 composites.