Synthesis of ZnSnO₃ nanostructure by sol gel method

Zinc Stannate (ZST) with composition ZnSnO₃ is known for high electron mobility, optical, piezoelectric and charge storage properties. ZST crystalizes in different lattice structures, which allows a wide range of tunablity. We demonstrate successful synthesis of ZnSnO₃ nanomaterial by sol-gel method. ZnSnO₃ nanomaterials were calcined and sintered at different temperatures. Powder X-ray diffraction confirmed the single phase of the nanomaterial with rhombohedral R-3 space group. The Rietveld refinement of diffraction pattern yielded lattice parameter values a=5.26Å, c=14.09Å. Raman spectroscopy revealed higher activity towards higher wavenumbers. Raman shift around 530cm⁻¹ was found to be highly structure dependent, most probably due to anharmonic atomic vibrations in ZnO₆/SnO₆ octahedra around center of mass. Sharp Peak around 650cm⁻¹ is characteristic of ZnSnO₃ molecule.