Synthesis of solar light responsive Fe, N co-doped TiO2 photocatalyst by sonochemical method

Fe, N co-doped TiO2 photocatalyst has been synthesized by sonochemical method. The as-prepared samples were characterized by XRD, TEM, UV–vis-DRS, XPS, FT-IR and physisorption of N2. Experimental results show that the as-prepared TiO2 photocatalyst has the anatase TiO2 crystalline phase. The band-gap energy absorption edge of Fe, N co-doped TiO2 shifted to longer wavelength as compared to commercial TiO2–P25 and N–TiO2. The specific surface area of the TiO2 was increased to 75 m2 g−1 with the doping of Fe and N ions into the TiO2 framework. The photocatalytic activity of Fe, N co-doped TiO2 for degradation of indigo carmine dye (ICD) under solar simulator was enhanced as compared to TiO2–P25 and N–TiO2.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload high-quality image (129 K)Download as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Sonochemical method is very useful for the synthesis of nanoparticles. ► Visible light active Fe–N–TiO2 photocatalyst was prepared by the sonochemical method. ► N and Fe co-doping on TiO2 lattice significantly red-shifted the UV–vis absorption. ► The Fe–N–TiO2 photocatalyst exhibited good photocatalytic activity on the degradation of indigo carmine under solar light irradiation.