Effective synthesis of metal loaded nitrogen doped multi walled carbon nanotubes for the degradation of Congo Red dye

Abstract

A simple and efficient way is described to synthesise metal loaded nitrogen doped bamboo shaped multiwalled carbon nanotubes (NBMWNT) by tubular furnace technique (TFT) using melamine as the single precursor for nitrogen and carbon, and ferric chloride as metal precursor for encapsulation of metal. The morphology, structure and size of NBMWNT were identified by XRD, TEM, TGA and Raman spectroscopy. The iron filled hollow shaped bamboo CNT were clearly seen in TEM and Raman spectrum indicating that the obtained CNTs are multiwalled with good graphitisation. The analysed sample was tested towards the photocatalytic efficiency of Congo Red dye (CRD). Efficiency of the Fe/NBMWNT as a photocatalyst was studied by changing the conditions such as effect of the catalyst, pH, H2O2, and concentration of dye.