Phase transformation and structural evolution in iron oxide nanostructures

Abstract

Nanostructured iron oxide (Fe2O3) have attracted considerable attention due to their unique physical properties, which are size and shape-dependent. In this article, hydrothermal & sol-gel methods have been opted for the growth of different nanostructures. Based on the choice of synthesis route, rhombohedral (α-phase) and cubic (γ-phase) shape of Fe2O3 are originated as confirmed from XRD and Raman measurements. HRTEM revealed the formation of different nanostructure of Fe2O3. Due to structural similarities with Fe3O4, cubic phase and smallest size (~ 12.3 nm) among all the samples, sol–gel derived γ-Fe2O3 nanocubes display maximum magnetization along with superparamagnetic behavior. Further, photocatalytic activity of prepared samples was screened for degradation of RB dye under UV light. The higher efficiency of nanoflowers compared to other structures may be ascribed to defects present in the nanostructure of catalyst. The present research indicates that nanostructures of Fe2O3 are highly efficient catalysts for the cleanup of environmental pollution.