Exploring the photocatalytic efficacy of core–shell CeO₂/TiO₂ nanocomposite synthesized via solution combustion synthesis

Abstract

This study investigates the photocatalytic efficacy of core–shell CeO2/TiO2 nanocomposite (CT-NC) synthesized via solution combustion synthesis. Various characterization techniques including X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), UV–visible spectroscopy (UV), photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL), Raman spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) along with energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analysis and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy with selected area electron diffraction (HRTEM-SAED) were employed to analyze the nanomaterials. XRD pattern confirmed the realization of cubic and tetragonal phases of CeO2 and TiO2. The vibrational modes observed below 800 cm−1 confirmed the metal-oxygen bonds of the synthesized samples. The energy bandgap (Eg) of CT-NC, as estimated from UV–vis spectra, reduced to 2.28 eV, resulting in a significant enhancement of the photocatalytic activity. The various emission peaks in the visible region due to the oxygen vacancies facilitated the generation of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS). EDS analysis confirmed the presence of elements and the purity of the samples. Furthermore, CT-NC demonstrated remarkable dye degradation efficiency, achieving a maximum efficiency of 98.15 % under visible light irradiation for 120 min. This enhanced activity is attributed to the Advanced Oxidation Process (AOPs). Overall, the results highlight the potential of CT-NC as an efficient photocatalyst for environmental remediation.