Synthesis and photocatalytic property of Co3O4 nanorods

Co3O4 nanorods were prepared by complex-pyrogenation method. The crystal structure was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD). The crystal morphology and partical size were analyzed using a transmission electron microscopy (TEM). In this study, detailed investigations of photocatalytic degradation of active dyes B-GFF, B-RN and K-NR with this Co3O4 are presented. The effects of some parameters such as calcination temperature, amount of photocatalyst and irradiation with UV/visible light on the efficiency of photocatalytic degradation were examined. The recycle of the photocatalyst was also examined. The degradation of dyes was analyzed by infrared ray (IR). The results show that this Co3O4 is active for photocatalytic degradation of the three different active dyes. There are proper dosage and calcination temperature for the high activity of the photocatalyst. This Co3O4 also has photocatalytic activity under the irradiation of xenon lamp. What is more, it can be recycled by calcination again after reaction.