Synthesis and characterization of TiO2 foam and SiO2@TiO2 core ‐shell nanostructure for gnetin dye degradation from industrial effluent

AbstractThe current study intends to create TiO2 foam, SiO2 nanoparticles (NPs), and SiO2@TiO2 core-shell nanostructure (CSN) with improved photocatalytic durability for the quick degradation of the textile industrial water pollutant in the presence of sunlight. The sol-gel, St öber, and chemical co-precipitation methods have been used to synthesize TiO2 foam, SiO2 NPs, and SiO2@TiO2 CSN. X-ray diffraction results have revealed the anatase phase of TiO2 foam, the amorphous nature of SiO2 NPs, and the amorphous nature of SiO2@TiO2 CSN due to equal wt.% of SiO2 NPs and TiO2 foam at 300 K. Field emission scanning electron microscope images show that the TiO2 foam, SiO2 NPs, and SiO2@TiO2 CSN exhibit cluster sheets, spherical, and spherical raspberry-like homogeneous morphology. The ultraviolet spectrum confirmed that the TiO2 foam and SiO2@TiO2 CSN have a band gap of 2.9  eV and 3.4 eV. SiO2@TiO2 CSN has been shown an excellent decomposition rate of water pollutants (gentian dye) in comparison to TiO2 foam due to their better-absorbing nature. Both NPs and CSN employed in the breakdown of gentian dye have been recycled and their original characteristics are preserved. The proposed SiO2@TiO2 CSN has a higher potential for application in developing self-cleaning, long-lasting, and air-purifying materials.
Source: Environmental Quality Management - Category: Environmental Health Authors: Tags: RESEARCH ARTICLE Source Type: research