Carbothermal Synthesis of the Nanostructures of Al2O3 and ZnO

Nanostructures of Al₂O₃ and ZnO have been synthesized by a carbothermal route involving the reaction of the metal or the metal oxide with carbon. In the case of Al₂O₃, nanowires and nanotubes are obtained starting with Al metal and active carbon or graphite. ZnO nanowires are obtained by the reaction of zinc oxalate or ZnO with active carbon or multiwalled carbon nanotubes. The Al₂O₃ and ZnO nanostructures obtained have been characterized by X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy and photoluminescence spectroscopy. These nanostructures are likely to be of use as catalyst supports and in other technological applications.