Synthesis and characterization of Co doped ZnO nanopowders using the sol-gel method

In this study, Co doped ZnO based semiconductor samples are produced by the sol-gel method is the most widely used method for preparing nano size materials. The effect of the Co (Kobalt) doping on structural, magnetic and mechanical properties of the Co/ZnO semiconductors is investigated in detail. For comparison, undoped sample is prepared in the same conditions. X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD) is used to determine phase analysis and lattice parameters of the superconducting samples and scanning electron microscope (SEM) measurements are made for microstructure properties. The magnetization measurement for magnetic properties and microhardness measurement for mechanic properties are carried out. Vickers microhardness, young modulus, fracture toughness and yield strength values are calculated separately for doped and undoped samples. And then experimental results of microhardness measurements are analyzed using the Meyer law, PSR model, EPD model, the Hays- Kendall (HK) approach and IIC model is determined as the most successful model.