Spectral,X-ray diffraction,surface morphological and thermal studies of gamma-irradiated potassium bis(oxalato)zincate(II)dihydrate

ABSTRACT

Potassium bis(oxalato)zincate(II)dihydrate was prepared and characterized. The sample was irradiated with ⁶⁰Co gamma rays up to 900?kGy. Infrared, Raman and photoluminescence spectra, X-ray diffraction pattern, surface morphology by AFM and SEM and non-isothermal decomposition of the complex were studied before and after irradiation. Spectral studies suggested significant radiation damage. X-ray diffraction studies showed reduction in unit cell volume and average crystallite size. Both unirradiated and irradiated samples of the complex belong to the hexagonal crystal system. Surface morphology of the complex changed upon irradiation. Thermal decomposition was enhanced.