Copper Ferrite nanoparticles synthesised using a novel green synthesis route: Structural development and photocatalytic activity

Abstract

The copper ferrite nanoparticles, recognized for their ferromagnetic characteristics, minimal conductivity, and superior electrochemical stability, were synthesized by a facile auto combustion approach using egg white as fuel via a green synthesis route. CuFe2O4 nanoparticles' structural, morphological, and optical properties were examined. XRD is used to determine the phase formation, particle size, and lattice parameter of spinel ferrite. X-ray Diffractometer (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Energy Dispersive X-ray analysis were used to rigorously examine the phase purity of the synthesized spinel ferrite. For morphological analysis, SEM and TEM were employed, whereas EDAX was used for elemental analyses. For a better knowledge of the conduction band (CB) and valence band (VB) boundaries of the produced nanoparticles, optical experiments were conducted by UV Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy. The degradation of Rhodamine B dye determined the photocatalytic competence of the synthesized sample under visible light. At regular intervals of time, the entire process was observed with a spectrophotometer. CuFe2O4 nanoparticles reveal a maximum photocatalytic degradation efficiency of around 94%, which is higher than that of CuFe2O4 nanoparticles prepared via other chemical route.