Abstract

Er3+-doped TiO2 nanofibers with different Er3+ contents were prepared via electrospinning and characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, ultraviolet–visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy and photocurrent measurement. Photocatalytic activities of the as-prepared samples were evaluated by the decolorization of methyl orange aqueous solution under simulated solar light irradiation. The results indicated that the photocatalytic activity of Er3+-doped TiO2 nanofibers was much higher than that of the undoped one, and the optimal dosage of Er3+ at 1mol% achieved the highest degradation rate. Moreover, the photocatalytic activity of Er3+-doped TiO2 nanofibers under the irradiation of light with the wavelength beyond the absorption edge of TiO2 was explored by the decolorization of a dye, rhodamine B and the photodegradation of a typical colorless pollutant, phenol. The results further revealed the mechanism of the enhanced photocatalytic activity through Er3+ doping in TiO2 nanofibers.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.