Abstract
In this study, porous Co3O4 nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized through solution combustion synthesis (SCS) method. Precursor cobalt nitrate hexahydrate as the oxidizer and glycine as the fuel were used, focusing on the regular alterations to the fuel-to-oxidizer (F/O) ratio so as to achieve the desired characteristics of the produced nanoparticles in terms of their morphology and structure. XRD analysis confirmed the formation of spinel-phase Co3O4 with an average crystallite size of approximately 40 nm. SEM imaging revealed an interconnected nanoporous structure with pore sizes ranging from 100 to 500 nm. Raman spectroscopy identified a strong F2g mode at 600 cm–1, corresponding to asymmetric stretching vibrations of oxygen atoms coordinated to tetrahedral cobalt ions. Co3O4 NPs have been widely reported for their applications in catalysis, energy storage, and environmental remediation due to their superb electrochemical performance and stability. Through examining the effects of varied F/O ratios, this work aimed to extend the knowledge on how the synthesis parameters could be utilized to optimize the characteristics of Co3O4 NPs towards advanced technological uses. The results will be significant for enhancing functional materials, catalysts and the creation of energy conversion and storage systems of the future.