Abstract

The p-n junction ZnO/CuO nanocomposite photocatalysts are prepared via the copreripitation route. The detailed structural, compositional and optical characterization and physico-chemical properties of the obtained products are analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV-vis DRS), photoluminscience spectra (PL) and electron spin resonance (ESR) spin-trapping techniques. The experimental results showed that the absorption wavelength range of the ZnO/CuO nanocomposite was notably extended towards the visible-light region (400–500 nm). The photocataltic activity of the ZnO/CuO nanocomposite was evaluated based on the decomposition of by methyl orange (MeO) in aqueous solution under UV-vis light irradiation. The photocatalytic activity of ZnO/CuO nanocomposite is found much better than of bare ZnO photocatalyst under the identical conditions. Factors influencing photocatalytic activity and the mechanism of photocatalysis reaction were also addressed.

Full Text
Published version (Free)

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