Anti-corrosive surface effect of ascorbic acid caused on the ZnO nanoparticles — Experimental and theoretical investigations

In present work a problem related to nanoparticle surface interaction with environment was highlighted. Electrochemical measurements and quantum-chemical calculations of an electron properties of the ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) and ZnO-NPs/ascorbic acid hybrid material were performed. An assessment of dissolution rate of the ZnO-NPs in Hank solution, simulating human body fluid, due to the phenomenon of corrosion was determined. A dramatic change of redox behaviour for the ZnO-NPs was observed with addition of ascorbic acid (AsA) into the solution. Total inhibition effect of the AsA on the ZnO-NPs surface in Hank solution was observed. The corrosion behaviour of the ZnO-NPs and their surface activity was also studied theoretically by computer modelling and quantum-chemical calculations. The performed computer simulations show that the electrons are transferred from AsA to nanoparticle. In consequence, the radicals from the ZnO-NP surface are suppressed. Was shown that information concerning redox properties of NPs lead to the assessment of the life-time of pure and surface treated nanostructures. This is an important step to prevent unwanted consequences caused by NPs for human health, the environment, etc.