UV enhanced synthesis of high density Au coated ZnO nanocomposite.

We report the synthesis of high density Au coated ZnO nanocomposites by UV irradiation using a mixed solution of ZnO nanowires, HAuCl4 and Na2CO3. This synthesis process is easier and faster than a hydrothermal process in synthesizing Au/ZnO nanocomposites. The morphology, size distribution and density of the Au nanoparticles on the ZnO nanowires, which affect the photocatalytic efficiency of the synthesized Au/ZnO nanocomposite, were affected by the pH of the mixed solution.