Shining black nanoscopic ternary zincospiroffite: A panchromatic light harvester for depollution

Abstract

Nanostructured zincospiroffite (Zn2Te3O8), a promising photocatalyst for water purification and bacterial inhibition is reported for the first time. Sparkling black Zn2Te3O8 nanocrystals have been synthesized via template-free solvothermal method with minimum precursors, zinc acetate and tellurium powder, in a polymeric medium of beta-aminoethylamine. Optical and structural characterizations prove the crystalline nature and panchromatic light harvesting behavior of zincospiroffite. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Raman analysis and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy provide evidence for the anion deficiency in the crystals. A 3D crystal structure derived from XRD data confirms the bonding states. Panchromatic light harvesting behavior and reactive oxygen species generation from this unexplored semiconductor help visible to near IR driven photocatalysis and unprecedently high antibacterial activity. Keywords: Ternary metal oxide, Zn2Te3O8, Photocatalyst, Bacterial inhibition