Preparation and Characterization of the Graphite/zno Composites

The composites graphite/ZnO were prepared using calcination method. Zinc chloride (ZnCl2) and sodium carbonate (Na2CO3) were used for synthesis of zinc oxide (ZnO), whereas micromilled and natural graphite were used as the matrix for ZnO nanoparticles growing. During the reaction of ZnCl2 with saturated aqueous solution of Na2CO3 new compound Na2Zn3(CO3)4•(H2O)3 originates. During the calcination at the temperatures higher than 400°C this new precursor decomposes and ZnO nanoparticles are formed. The composites prepared within this research contained 10 and 50 wt.% of ZnO. Morphology of the composites was studied using scanning electron microscopy. Zinc content was determined using area EDS analysis. The X – ray diffraction method was used to study phase composition of the samples. The photocatalytic activity of prepared composites was determined by discoloration of organic dye acid orange 7 aqueous solution under UV irradiation.