Synthesis and Photocatalytic Properties of ZnWO4 Nanocrystals via a Fast Microwave-Assisted Method

Abstract

High crystallinity of ZnWO4 nanoparticles has been successfully synthesized via a highly effective and environmentally friendly microwave route by controlling the reaction time and temperature. The products were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and Fourier infrared spectrum (FT-IR). The crystallinity was enhanced with the increase of the reaction temperature and time. The photocatalytic activities of ZnWO4 nanocrystals were evaluated by testing the photodegradation of rhodamine B (RhB) dye under ultraviolet (UV) light irradiation. The results indicated that as-prepared ZnWO4 was highly effective for the degradation of RhB. The degradation rate of RhB reached 98.01% after 6 h of UV illumination.