Abstract: (2002 Views)
In this study, we thoroughly examine β-Bi2O3 thin films as potential photocatalysts. We produced these films using an environmentally friendly Sol Gel method that is also cost-effective. Our research focuses on how different precursor concentrations, ranging from 0.1 M to 0.4 M, affect the photocatalytic performance of these films. We conducted a comprehensive set of tests to analyze various aspects of the films, including their structure, morphology, topography, optical properties, wettability, and photocatalytic capabilities. These tests provided us with a well-rounded understanding of the films' characteristics. To assess their photocatalytic efficiency, we used Methylene Blue (MB) as a contaminant and found that the films, particularly those with a 0.1 M concentration, achieved an impressive 99.9% degradation of MB within four hours. The 0.1 M film had a crystalline size of 39.7 nm, an indirect band gap of 2.99 eV, and a contact angle of 51.37°. Our findings suggest that β-Bi2O3 films, especially the 0.1 M variant, have promising potential for treating effluents from complex industrial dye processes. This research marks a significant step in utilizing sustainable materials to address pollution and environmental remediation challenges.
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Highlights
• Bi2O3 thin films were synthesized via low-cost method of dip coating.
• The maximum average transmission in the visible region was about 78%.
• β-tetragonal phase was dominant for all Bi2O3
• All films show hydrophilic surface with a contact angle between 45.57 and 67.14°.
• 0.1M achieved high photocatalytic efficiency of 99.9%.