Hengky C., Dunn S., Singh V., Loh L.
Nanyang Polytechnic, SG
Keywords: BiFeO3, nanoparticle, photocatalytic degradation, visible light
The use of renewable or low energy sources for the degradation of organic pollutants has generated broad interest in both scientific research and potential applications in recent years. Research on semiconductor photocatalysis came sharply into focus after the discovery that TiO2 photochemical electrodes that could split water using ultraviolet light. TiO2-based photocatalyst has been extensively investigated due to their excellent photochemical stability, high-efficiency, low cost, and non-toxicity. However, the photo-efficiency of TiO2 is severely limited by its large band gap (3.2 eV), and the associated restriction of the absorption in the visible-light region and this renders the overall process impractical. In this paper, small band gap (2.2eV) oxide semiconductor bismuth ferric oxide (BiFeO3 or BFO) nanoparticle was synthesized using a low temperature hydrothermal method. The influence of the surfactants and chelating agents used on the size and purity of the synthesized BFO nanoparticles was investigated. The morphology and size of the synthesized BFO nanoparticles were investigated using Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) and Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) nanosizer. The photocatalytic degradation efficiency effect will be tested on congo red dyes. The influence on the absorption edge was also measured using spectrometry.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 1, Nanotechnology 2010: Advanced Materials, CNTs, Particles, Films and Composites
Published: June 21, 2010
Pages: 570 - 573
Industry sector: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing
Topic: Nanoparticle Synthesis & Applications
ISBN: 978-1-4398-3401-5