Synthesis, characterization and photocatalytic activity of α-Fe2O3 nanoparticles

► α-Fe2O3 nanoparticles by a simple thermal decomposition technique at 500 and 650 °C. ► Mesoporous nature with specific surface area in the range of 79.2-58.5 m2/g. ► Band gap energy form the optical measurements. ► Enhanced photocatalytic activity towards the decomposition of RB dye. ► Pseudo-first-order decomposition kinetics.