Control sonochemical parameter to prepare pure Zn0.35Fe2.65O4 nanostructures and study their photocatalytic activity

Abstract

Zn0.35Fe2.65O4 nanostructure was prepared as a ferrite material by using a simple sonochemistry method. The effect of different parameters such as sonication time and power were studied. By increasing sonication power and time more Fe+3 ions reduced to Fe+2. This happens because H and OH radicals produced under sonication could act as a reduction agent. Therefore by increasing power and sonication time more Fe+3 ions reduced. Pure Zn0.35Fe2.65O4 nanostructure was formed when sonication time and power were 30 min and 40 W. Surface area for pure Zn0.35Fe2.65O4 nanostructure was 64m2.g−1. Afterward, Zn0.35Fe2.65O4 nanostructures were applied to treat water containing different pollutants. As-prepared nanostructures degrade 60.8, 77.9, 55.2 and 44.0% of Acid Violet 7, Acid Blue 92, Acid Red 14, and Methyl Orange under visible light during 180 min irradiation. In addition, 94.5, 84.2, and 43.0% of AV7, PhR, and Ery were degraded under UV light during 120 min irradiation. The as-synthesized Zn0.35Fe2.65O4 nanostructure was characterized through the SEM, EDX, TEM, CV, DRS, BET, VSM, and XRD.