Size-controlled sub-micrometer spheroidized ZnO particles synthesis via plasma-induced processing in microdroplets

This report describes the synthesis of ZnO spheroidized particles (SPs) of sub-micrometer diameter via plasma-induced processing in microdroplets. For ZnO-SPs synthesis, microdroplets of zinc acetate (Zn(Ac)2) solution are exposed to atmospheric-pressure non-equilibrium plasma. The synthesized SP diameter is controlled by adjusting the solution concentration investigated in the range of 0.5–2mM. The SPs show a unique ZnO nanocomposite structure of crystalline wurtzite nanoparticles and an amorphous matrix. The results of analyses underscore that one SP is formed from one microdroplet. [Display omitted] •Plasma-induced processing in microdroplets is presented.•Sub-micrometer ZnO spherodized particles are synthesized.•The particle diameter is controlled by adjusting zinc acetate solution concentration.•Composite structure of crystalline nanoparticles and amorphous matrix is observed.