Synthesis And Characterization Of Tio2 Based Thin Films For Photocatalytic Applications

Abstract

In this research work, we have prepared TiO2, CQD/TiO2 and Fe3O4/TiO2 thin films on FTO plate using a facile, cost effective and low temperature hydrothermal method. The prepared thin films were subjected to characterization techniques in order to assess the properties of the materials. The crystalline structure of the materials were analysed by X-Ray Diffraction (XRD). The functional and structural details the prepared films were elucidated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and Raman spectroscopy. The optical properties of the materials were investigated with UV-Vis spectroscopy. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) was used to analyse the surface morphology and the elemental compositions were confirmed by Energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDX). newlineThe photocatalytic experiments were performed under UV irradiation and direct sunlight radiation for the degradation of Methylene blue (MB) and Acid Red1 (AR1) dyes. The results evidenced the effective improvement in the degradation efficiency, when modified thin films were used. The reusability of the catalysts after three cycles of studies showed the stability of the thin films and the results are compared and discussed in detail. newline