Ultrasound-assisted fabrication and characterization of a novel UV-light-responsive Er2Cu2O5 semiconductor nanoparticle Photocatalyst

Abstract

The photocatalytic procedure is one of the most favorable methods for the elimination of poisonous organic dyes to achieve clean drinking water. In this research, a fast sonochemistry method was accomplished to attain Er2Cu2O5 (ECO) nanoparticles with a progressive photo-degradation catalytic routine. Tetraethylenepentamine (TEPA) was operated as both alkaline and complexing agents to control growth of designed nuclei due to the formation of hydrogen bonds between active surface groups of TEPA and nuclei and, lastly stop nano-product accumulation. The ultrasonic time and power factors in sonochemistry reaction were improved to control the final nanostructures properties. The surface features of products were measured via diverse characterization systems of spectroscopic and microscopic. The elimination of dissimilar artificial dyes was carried out through Er2Cu2O5 nanoparticle catalysts. The outcome of altering of artificial pollutant, pollutant concentration, scavenger, nano-catalyst dosage and solution pH was titled on the proficiency of nano-catalyst utility. Optimized Er2Cu2O5 nanoparticles have an efficiency of 97% for degradation of erythrosine dye in an acidic medium. The possible mechanism of deletion dye by photocatalytic purpose was studied and concluded that •O2– radicals help UV-degradation of contamination.

Keywords

• Nanostructures
• Sonochemical
• Er2Cu2O5
• Photocatalyst