Synthesis of flower like zinc oxide nanostructure and its application as a photocatalyst

In the present study a flower like ZnO nanostructure has been synthesized by using simple hydrothermal route without any catalysts, templates or substrates. The phase structure and morphology of the synthesized ZnO has been characterized by XRD, SEM and TEM. The room temperature photoluminescence (PL), diffuse reflectance spectra (DRS), FT-IR spectra and BET surface area have also been examined. Furthermore the application of the prepared ZnO as a photocatalyst was investigated for the decolorization of pararosaniline chloride dye and its simulated dyebath effluent. Finally the comparison of photocatalytic activity of commercial and synthesized ZnO has been made. Experiments were also performed to investigate the reusability and stability of the synthesized ZnO.

Graphical abstractIn the present study a flower like ZnO nanostructure has been synthesized by using simple hydrothermal route without any catalysts, templates or substrates. The phase structure and morphology of the synthesized ZnO has been characterized by XRD, SEM and TEM. The room temperature photoluminescence (PL), diffuse reflectance spectra (DRS), FT-IR spectra and BET surface area have also been examined. Furthermore the application of the prepared ZnO as a photocatalyst was investigated for the decolorization of pararosaniline chloride dye. Finally the comparison of photocatalytic activity of commercial and synthesized ZnO has been made. Experiments were also performed to investigate the reusability of the synthesized ZnO.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► The synthesis of flower like ZnO nanostructure using simple hydrothermal route without any catalysts, templates or substrates. ► The flower was made of taper shaped rods which were 400 nm to 500 nm long and 100 nm to 150 nm thick. ► The prepared ZnO catalysts showed better photocatalytic activity for the decolorization of pararosaniline chloride dye.