Sol-Gel Synthesis Reveals ZnO Nanoparticle Structure and Antibacterial Properties

The sol-gel technique was used to produce zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) from zinc nitrate in distilled water. With an average particle size of 21 nm, ZnO NPs form a wurtzite hexagonal shape. Four hours of 500°C heat purified nanopowder and decreased preparation pollutants. Structure and morphology were characterized by XRD, SEM, and EDS. Nanoparticle studies revealed crystalline structure and homogenous dispersion.\r\nZnO nanoparticles were examined for antibacterial activity against Gram-negative (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Klebsiella pneumoniae) and Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) pathogens using conventional agar diffusion. Large zones of inhibition showed ZnO NPs\' antibacterial capabilities. ZnO NPs disrupt bacterial cell membranes with ROS, making them antibacterial. This shows that calcination temperature and precursor selection improve ZnO nanoparticle shape and antibacterial activity. The findings suggest sol-gel-synthesised ZnO NPs might be employed in antibacterial coatings and water purification systems. Research on doping and functional modifications may increase multifunctional ZnO nanoparticle performance.\r\n