Statistical optimization of experimental parameters for synthesis of two efficient photocatalyst: erbium carbonate and erbium oxide nanoparticles

Abstract

A statistical approach (i.e. Taguchi robust design) was used to optimize a precipitation process for controlled preparation of nano-sized erbium carbonate particles. The parameters considered were the concentrations of the cation and anion solutions, as well as the flow rate at which the cation solution was added to the anion solution (Fy) and the temperature at which the reaction took place (Temz). The products were characterized to assess the effects of the parameters on the properties of the product and the optimal product, i.e. the product particles with the smallest size were then thermally treated to yield Er2O3 nanoparticles, which were found to be about 36 nm in average size. The morphology and chemical composition of both nano-structures were evaluated by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, FT-IR and UV–Vis spectroscopies. Samples of both particles were tested as photodegradation catalysts for removing methyl orange under ultraviolet light.