Facile synthesis of efficient visible active C-doped TiO2 nanomaterials with high surface area for the simultaneous removal of phenol and Cr(VI)

• Facile synthesis of C-doped TiO2 nanomaterials with high surface area.
• Utilization of citric acid and ascorbic acid as fuels based on evolution of gases.
• Enhanced visible activity for the oxidation of phenol and reduction of Cr(VI).
• Study of simultaneous oxidation of phenol and reduction of Cr(VI) for the first time.
• Proposed plausible mechanism for the simultaneous removal of phenol and Cr(VI).

A single step synthesis of carbon doped TiO2 (anatase) nanomaterials have been reported by using combustion synthesis using ascorbic acid and citric acid fuels. X-ray diffraction studies indicated the formation of nanosized anatase titania, whereas, transmission electron microscopy confirmed the formation of nanosized TiO2 anatase. The carbon doping into TiO2 matrix was identified by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, whereas, thermogravimetric study quantified the carbon doping. Diffuse reflectance UV–vis spectra indicated the band gap of less than 3 eV, a prerequisite for the photocatalytic activity under visible light irradiation. The N2 adsorption studies revealed the high surface area (upto 290 m2/g) of the synthesized photocatalysts. Typical photocatalytic activity data indicated that the simultaneous removal of Cr(VI) and phenol is advantageous than degradation of the individual pollutants.

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