Broad spectrum catalysis using Ca3Sn2S7 Ruddlesden-Popper perovskite under multi-stimulus

Abstract

Advanced oxidation processes emerged as effective alternatives to traditional approaches. The efficacy of these methods significantly depends on the intrinsic properties of a catalyst material. Semiconductor materials with robust photo absorption alongside inherent polarization emerged as subjects of great interest. In this study, we synthesized two-dimensional Ca3Sn2S7 nanosheets oriented as Ruddlesden-Popper type perovskite structure. The optimal compositions of these nanosheets exhibit excellent physical and optical characteristics while varying Sn ratios significantly impact the properties. Impressively, these compositions boast a wide optical window that spans from the visible to the far infrared region, featuring a narrow bandgap of approximately 0.6 eV. Band potentials in a positive regime make it highly favorable for the oxidation process. The electrochemical analysis further validates high mobility with low resistance in both compositions. The catalytic efficiency of the synthesized nanosheets is evaluated using rhodamine-B. Three energy sources, i.e., visible light, laser, and ultrasound vibrations, decomposed 96 %, 90 %, and 78 %, respectively, in 30 min. Remarkably accelerated degradation rates are achieved under each stimulus, owing to the presence of oxidative optical bands, large surface area, and potential internal polarization within the nanosheets. Preliminary findings strongly indicate the immense potential of this compound in catalytic and photovoltaic applications.