Efficient adsorption, mechanism and photocatalytic performance of Yb-SnO2photocatalyst

• Published in: Ceramics international 2024-05, Vol.50 (9), p.15976-15993
• Main Authors: Kumari, Harita, Sonia, Chahal, Surjeet, Kumar, Ashok, Parmar, Rajesh
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Ferromagnetism; Photocatalysis; SnO2; XPS
• ISSN: 0272-8842; 1873-3956
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ceramint.2024.02.077

In this current investigation, a straightforward method is presented for synthesis of Yb-doped SnO2 (Yb = 0%, 0.5%, 1.5%, 3% and 5%) NPs using a sol-gel approach. Various techniques were used to analyze the surface morphology, crystalline structure, chemical composition, and optical properties of the prepared samples. XRD, FTIR, and HRTEM confirmed nanoparticle formation. Raman, XPS, and PL spectroscopy were employed to examine electronic, optical properties, and lattice defects. Introducing Yb dopant into Yb-SnO2 NPs enhanced their optical features, as indicated by a significant red shift. These particles exhibited impressive catalytic efficiency, degrading 98% of a 10 ppm RB dye solution within a 60-min period under UV light irradiation. Furthermore, the recyclability analysis demonstrated that the 5% Yb catalyst can be recycled multiple times. Scavenger tests were performed for the 5% Yb sample to explore primary active species involved in the degradation process. The magnetic features of the synthesized samples were investigated using VSM analysis, revealing an increase in Mmax from 3.98 × 10−3 to 10.40 × 10−3 emu/g. This enhancement was associated with the activation of the FCE, induced by the presence of oxygen vacancies. These findings are instrumental in propelling the advancement of sophisticated materials for both sustainable wastewater treatment and applications in spintronics.