Enhanced photocatalytic activity of zinc oxide and tin doped zinc oxide nanoparticles synthesized by direct injection flame synthesis

Abstract

Pristine zinc oxide and tin doped zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles were prepared using single step rapid direct injection flame synthesis (DIFS) method and compared. The results revealed prominent changes in morphological and optical properties due to the incorporation of Sn ions into ZnO matrix and its origin was discussed. Upon doping the ZnO nanoparticles experiences change in length along the c- axis which increases the volume of the unit cell and bond length of zinc and oxygen ions. Other than that, tin doping in ZnO introduces new intrinsic defect level which decreases the electron hole recombination rate at the interface and enhances the formation of hydroxyl radicals and superoxide which further improves the photocatalytic degradation of Methylene Blue (93%) compared to pure ZnO (81%).