Synthesis and characterization of CdS/TiO2 nanocomposite: Methylene blue adsorption and enhanced photocatalytic activities

• Published in: Vacuum 2019-01, Vol.159, p.476-481
• Main Authors: Gomathi Thanga Keerthana, B., Murugakoothan, P.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Hydrothermal method; Nanocomposite; Photocatalytic degradation
• ISSN: 0042-207X; 1879-2715
• DOI: 10.1016/j.vacuum.2018.10.082

In this report, CdS/TiO2 nanocomposite was synthesized by hydrothermal method using KOH as an alkaline medium. The prepared sample was calcined at 200 °C for 2 h. The sample was characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis, UV–Vis-NIR absorption spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy and nitrogen adsorption-desorption tests. X-ray analysis confirmed the hexagonal wurtzite/titanate phase formation of nanocomposite. TEM images revealed the titanate nanotube and CdS particle formation of CdS/TiO2 nanocomposite. The presence of functional groups in the sample was analyzed by IR spectroscopy. Band-gap energy of the sample was determined by UV-vis-NIR diffuse reflectance spectrum. Raman intensities confirm the presence of CdS and TiO2 in the synthesized nanocomposite. From BET analysis, surface area of the sample is determined as 31.7 m2/g and an average pore diameter is 10.41 nm. The as-prepared sample was used in the photodegradation reaction of methylene blue (MB) dye under sunlight and analyzed by UV-visible absorption spectroscopy. The results recommend that the nanocomposite exhibited much higher visible light photocatalytic activity for the degradation of methylene blue and the photodegradation efficiency can reach 77% after 180 min. •CdS/TiO2 nanocomposite was synthesized by hydrothermal method.•Wurtzite/Titanate phase was confirmed by Powder X-Ray diffraction analysis.•Catalytic activity shows that the sample is suitable for water purification.