The Influence of the Calcination Time on Synthesis of Nanomaterials with Small Size, High Crystalline Nature and Photocatalytic Activity in the TiO2 Nanoparticles Calcined at 500 °C

Abstract

The development of new materials with diverse applications that fit well in the context of the current economy, where energy issues abound, is paramount. The goal of this study was to generate materials with high photocatalytic properties, at low cost and with less energy, and without health and ecological risks. Such materials would allow for a form of sustainable development that respects nature. This study investigated the influence of calcination time on titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) produced by green synthesis using Aloe vera leaf extract under a constant temperature of 500 °C. The interaction between synthesis conditions like calcination time and the size of nanoparticles produced in relation to changes in photocatalytic activity were analyzed and discussed. The results showed that when calcination was increased at 500 °C, the synthesis of small-diameter nanoparticles was promoted. TiO2 were 23 ± 2 nm (D1) and 83 ± 5 nm (D2) after 5 h and 1 h of calcination, respectively. Moreover, the calcination duration promoted an increase in crystalline nature. In the same way, the level of reduction of azo dye Remazol Red Brilliant F3B (RR180) increased when calcination time increased, and therefore, changed the optic and photo-catalytic properties of the TiO2 nanomaterial. In addition, TiO2 nanopowders (size 23 ± 2 nm) had the higher efficiency in photodegradation (100%) of dye RR180 under visible light irradiation for 60 min for up to one hour duration, but TiO2 NPs (83 ± 5 nm) had the higher efficiency (100%) for up to two hours duration.