Synthesis of snowflake-like multi-layered ZnO with controllable pore sizes and its photocatalytic property

Snowflake-like multi-layered ZnO with porous structure is synthesized through a facile hydrothermal process and followed by calcinating process. The pore size of the multilayered ZnO is controlled by just regulating the calcination temperature. X-diffraction (XRD) patterns reveal that the precursor obtained by hydrothermal method is zinc hydroxide carbonate (ZnHC)1, after being calcinated, pure wurtzite ZnO is got. TEM and SEM demonstrate the existence of the porosity and the variation of the pore size (ranges from tens of nanometers to hundreds of nanometers). The photocatalytic property is investigated by Xenon Lamp and sunlight.

Graphical abstractDownload full-size imageHighlights► The pore size of the multi-layered ZnO is roughly controlled by just regulating the calcination temperature. ► The surface-to-volume ratio of the samples decrease with the increase in calcination temperature. ► The surface-to-volume ratio is not the decisive factor and the pores sizes also play a very important role in the whole catalytic activity. ► ZnO obtained at 550 °C shows strongest catalytic ability and good recycling ability and demonstrates good catalytic ability in the sunlight.