Review on synthesis, characterisation and properties of transition metal doped ZnO nanostructures

Zinc oxide is considered as most promising material and explored by for various applications due to its unique UV absorption, blue emission and room temperature ferromagnetic properties. Here we have elaborated the effect of transition metal doping on structural, optical and magnetic property of ZnO and doped ZnO nanostructure. The comparison of different synthesis method like sol gel method, precipitation process and hydrothermal provides an overview of synthesis route for specific application. ZnO nanostructures are promising candidates in various applications such as solar cell, UV detector, gas sensor, chemical sensor, and photocatalytic application. This study explores the effect of transition metal (Mn, Co) doping on HCP crystal structure, optical, magnetic and electrical properties of ZnO. The doping of transition metal opens new possibility of material function due to high solubility limit, easy tuning of absorption and emission of ZnO and tunable magnetic behavior. The properties of ZnO can be adjusted by tuning the defect concentration or by incorporation suitable dopant ion. This study will shed light on factors affecting the characteristic properties of ZnO due to transition metal substitution. The study will provide a path to novice researcher to explore the transition metal doped ZnO for futuristic application.