Outstanding performance of Co-doped ZnS nanoparticles used as nanocatalyst for synthetic dye degradation

Abstract

In this work, fabrication of pure and cobalt (Co) doped zinc sulfide (ZnS) nanoparticles were carried out via facile co-precipitation technique using thioglycolic acid as a surfactant. The synthesized nano powders were employed to characterize using various techniques like X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and UV–Vis spectroscopy, to elucidate the alterations in the structure and morphology of nanomaterials. The XRD analysis revealed wurtzite phase of fabricated nanoparticles. Inclusion of Co dopants failed to modify the lattice structure of host material. Analysis of UV–Vis spectroscopy indicates intensive absorption in the visible region upon doping. FTIR spectroscopy was employed to identify functional groups affiliated with molecular vibrations. The photoactivity and kinetics of photo-products were evaluated by monitoring degradation of methylene blue (MB) by solar irradiation. Photodecomposition of MB was significantly increased when Co doped ZnS was employed relative to pristine ZnS. This novel technique of doped ZnS nanoparticles provide an effectual and sustainable route for treatment of wastewater.

Keywords

• ZnS
• Doping
• Nanoparticles
• Dye
• Photocatalytic activity
• Wastewater treatment