Facile preparation of ZnO particles with different structures and their photocatalytic activity

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to report a novel preparation method of ZnO particles with different structures and their photocatalytic activity.

Design/methodology/approach

ZnO powders are prepared by a facile, economical and environment-friendly aqueous solution route. X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy and UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectra are used to characterize the products. Photocatalytic activity of the samples is evaluated by degradation of organic pollutant pentachlorophenol under UV-vis irradiation.

Findings

It is found that three-dimensional ZnO hierarchical structures can be prepared via aqueous solution route without using any template or structure-directing agent, and the alkalinity of reaction solution is the key factor. All the as-prepared ZnO products have good catalytic activity under UV-vis light irradiation.

Originality/value

This report presents a simple method for the preparation of ZnO particles with excellent photocatalytic activity. Experimental results could provide useful reference for the treatment of chlorophenols in the future.

Citation

Bian, L., Li, M., Lian, Y., Hao, Y. and Xie, J. (2016), "Facile preparation of ZnO particles with different structures and their photocatalytic activity", World Journal of Engineering, Vol. 13 No. 5, pp. 394-398. https://doi.org/10.1108/WJE-08-2016-0056