Browsing by Author "Seroka, Ntalane Sello"

Now showing 1 - 2 of 2
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    Extraction and synthesis of silicon nanoparticles (sinps) from sugarcane bagasse ash: A mini-review
    (MDPI, 2022) Seroka, Ntalane Sello; Taziwa, Raymond T.; Khotseng, Lindiwe
    This current study reviews the utilization of the traditional extraction methods and latest findings in extraction of silica from agricultural wastes, in particular, sugarcane bagasse, using inorganic acids to produce nano-silicon. The three key processes discussed in detail include elec-trochemical, ball milling, and sol–gel processes. The sugarcane bagasse has been identified as the cheapest source of producing silica from the potential raw material for the preparation of nano-silicon. The acid-base extraction and precipitation methodology involves the use of bases like sodium hydrox-ide (NaOH) and potassium hydroxide (KOH), and acids such as hydrofluoric acid (HF), sulphuric acid (H2SO4 ), nitric acid (HNO3 ), and hydrochloric acid (HCl) for the treatment of the ash.
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    Green synthesis of novel nanostructured silicon semiconductor thin film material from sugarcane bagasse ash for solar energy materials
    (University of the Western Cape, 2022) Seroka, Ntalane Sello; Khotseng, Lindiwe. E.
    The sun is considered the most abundant source of renewable and clean energy. With silicon being the most common element used for the direct conversion of solar energy into electrical energy, solar cells have, over the years, been the corresponding technology to the problem of energy on our planet. This technology is most common in aerospace applications. Nonetheless, the application in terrestrial areas is currently hampered by the high cost of photovoltaic modules. Therefore, the study focuses on the extraction and synthesis of silicon nanostructures from sugarcane bagasse ash. Notably, silicon is found in this feedstock in the form of silicic acid and predominantly as silica. The study's main goal could be achieved through the sustainable extraction of silica from sugarcane bagasse ash and subsequent transformation into nanostructured silicon.