Pt–ZnO/M (M = Fe, Co, Ni or Cu): A New Promising Hybrid-Doped Noble Metal/Semiconductor Photocatalysts

Abstract

In the present paper, a simple and fast one pot process to prepare hybrid metal/semiconductor nanocomposites (NCs) using a simple polyol method is discussed. The Nanoparticle sizes of the hybrid nanocomposite range between 20 and 30 nm. This protocol involves the use only of 1,3 propanediol as solvent and platinum(IV) and zinc(II) as precursors without the need to use any surfactant or reducing agent. The formation of platinum nanoparticles (PtNPs) was observed first (before the boiling point) followed by the zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles which started to form when the temperature reached boiling point (190 °C). The reaction then continued for 30 min. To study the doping effect on the optical properties of the hybrid nanomaterials obtained, Cu(II), Fe(II), Co(II) and Ni(II) were used as cationic dopants. The same protocol was maintained with the only exception being that the required amount of the doping element was added according to a well determined ratio (R = Zn(II):M(II), where M = Cu, Fe, Co, or Ni). Full characterization was conducted using various techniques (such as X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, DTA/TGA, X-ray fluorescence, etc.) to reveal the purity, morphology, stability and the intrinsic properties of the obtained hybrid Pt–ZnO/M nanocomposites (where M = Cu, Fe, Co or Ni). Compared to bare ZnO or Pt–ZnO, the new hybrid NCs exhibit a better stability (up to 600 °C) and an important change in the optical properties. This change makes them new promising hybrid nanomaterials for many applications especially in photocatlytic and renewable energy applications.