Exploring Cu doping and gamma irradiation effect on lead sulfide nanocrystallites for efficient environmental remediation of wastewater
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
7-1-2024
Abstract
In this study, we investigated the influence of Cu doping and gamma irradiation on the photocatalytic activity of lead sulfide (PbS) nanoparticles for methylene blue (MB) degradation under solar light. The optical bandgap of the gamma-irradiated Pb(1-x)CuxS (where x = 0 to 0.02) was calculated between 2.29 eV - 2.72 eV, facilitating the modulation of optical bandgaps in PbS. Additional analyses incorporating photoluminescence and the Brunauer (Emmett) Teller method were used to determine optical properties, surface area, and pore distribution. The photocatalytic degradation of MB under sunlight irradiation was investigated. The photocatalytic activity was enhanced with the increasing rate of MB degradation. Notably, gamma-irradiated Pb0.99Cu0.01S exhibited a remarkable MB degradation efficiency of 73.64 %, demonstrating its stability over three consecutive cycles. This underscores its inherent stability and potential for repeated use. Overall, these findings highlight the significant potential of gamma-irradiated Cu-doped PbS nanoparticles as durable, renewable photocatalysts for efficient degradation in an aqueous media, thereby offering a promising approach for environmental remediation.
Keywords
Cu doping, Gamma irradiation, PbS, Photocatalytic, Organic dye degradation
Divisions
nanotechnology
Publication Title
Ceramics International
Volume
50
Issue
13, A
Publisher
Elsevier
Publisher Location
125 London Wall, London, ENGLAND