Synthesis and characterizations of a versatile silica incorporated magnesium-zinc oxide photocatalyst

Abstract

Magnesium incorporated silicon dioxide-zinc oxide photocatalyst was synthesized. Structural properties were investigated by x-ray diffraction studies. These studies revealed the amorphous nature of the catalyst. The ultraviolet-visible spectroscopic analysis gave the bandgap variation from 2.4 to 2.6 eV with doping concentration. Surface morphology study, elemental analysis and thermal analysis were also carried out. Photocatalytic activities were followed by employing an ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometer. Photocatalytic reduction of chromium (VI) was studied using the catalyst under sunlight and ultraviolet radiation. This catalyst showed enhanced catalytic activity for the reduction of chromium (VI) and the degradation of methylene blue. The sample, 10 % magnesium-enriched catalyst showed the highest photocatalytic activity. Under sunlight, photocatalytic reduction of chromium (VI) was very rapid when compared with that under ultraviolet radiation.