Synthesis, characterization and photocatalytic properties of lithium tantalate

Lithium tantalate (LiTaO3) was successfully synthesized thorough an impregnation method of tantalum pentaoxide in the aqueous solution of lithium hydroxide. Next, the sample was divided into eight batches and calcinated in a temperature range of 450–800 °C. The materials produced were then characterized by X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, Diffuse Reflectance (DR) UV–vis spectroscopy, BET analysis, and high resolution transmission electron microscopy. Moreover, the samples were tested as photocatalysts in a reaction of hydrogen generation. Interestingly, it was found that the sample calcinated at 550 °C exhibits the highest photocatalytic activity. This sample is composed of 85% of LiTaO3 and 15% of Ta2O5.

► LiTaO3 was synthesized thorough an impregnation of Ta2O5 and LiOH and calcination at the temperature range of 450–800 °C.
► Each calcinated sample was tested as photocatalyst in the reaction of hydrogen generation.
► It was found that the key parameter determining their activity is the sample composition.
► The sample exhibiting the highest activity is composed of LiTaO3 (85.1%) and unreacted Ta2O5 (14.9%).