Synthesis, characterization and optical properties of magnesium hydroxide micro-/nanostructures

Magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH)$_{2})$ crystals of various shapes and sizes (micron to nano) were synthesized by single step hydrothermal route at different reaction conditions. The as-prepared hexagonal (Mg(OH)$_{2})$ particles were converted to cubic MgO by calcination at 450$^{o}$C. The Mg(OH)$_{2}$ and MgO nanostructures showed optical band gaps of 5.7 and 3.43 eV, respectively. Broad band photoluminescence emission spectra were observed in the vicinity of UV and visible region. Mg(OH)$_{2}$ and MgO nanostructures with wide optical band gap and short-wavelength luminescence emission can be used as a luminescent material for photonic applications.