Facile preparation and characterization of NiO/Ni2O3-decorated nanoballs and mixed phase CdS nano rods (CdS&NiO/Ni2O3) for effective photocatalytic decomposition of Congo red under visible light irradiation

Abstract

This study reports the preparation of a new CdS&NiO/Ni(2)O(3)photocatalyst having efficient and stable photocatalytic performance. The aim was to block the photocorrosion of CdS with maintaining photocatalytic activity. The prepared CdS and NiO/Ni(2)O(3)particles were in the form of nanorods and nanoballs, respectively. Diffuse reflectance spectra (DRS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), ultraviolet-visible light (UV-vis), scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Raman analysis, electrochemical impedance and photoluminescence analysis were performed to evaluate structural, morphological and optical properties and their effect on photocatalytic activity. CdS&NiO/Ni(2)O(3)catalysts absorbed visible light and enhanced charge separation than that of CdS and NiO/Ni2O3. The catalytic performance of the samples was tested on Congo red. The optimal content of CdS&NiO/Ni(2)O(3)was observed in CN3 sample. XPS results of defective NiO with different oxygen species showed powerful photocatalytic activities. These prepared photocatalysts need to be explored further in the decomposition of various environmental pollutants.