ZnO Photocatalysts Modified with Eu₂O₃ and Sm₂O₃

Abstract

In this study ZnO photocatalysts with different loading of Eu2O3 and Sm2O3 were prepared vie microwave-assisted hydrothermal method. The prepared samples were investigated by using XRD, SEM and BET analysis. The photocatalytic activity was determined by degradation of methylene blue (MB) under Osram Vitalux illumination. Prepared ZnO photocatalysts shown high photocatalytic activity under solar light simulated radiation. After 30 minute of irradiation more than 95 % of initial MB solution was degraded. The effect of pH and photocatalyst dosage was investigated. The reusability of photocatalysts was also studied.