Synthesis Optimization and Characterization of Visible-light Responsive Ce-doped Titanate Nanotubes for Enhanced Degradation of Polluting Dyes in Aqueous Environment

Abstract

For the decomposition organic substrates in the reaction container, we developed Ce-doped titanate nanotubes as visible light responsive photo catalyst. Anatase titania and titanate nanotubes were prepared using the sol-gel method and hydrothermal method. The photoactivity of Ce-doped titanate nanotubes under visible light were dramatically improved than anatase titania and titanate nanotubes. All titania and titanate nanotubes were characterized using X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectroscopy and UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy. Their’s photocatalytic activities were investigated by the degradation rate of methylene blue solution under UV and visible light condition. The crystalinity of the titanate nanotubes were increased by Ce-doping compared with that of pure titania nanotube. In addition, the UV-Vis absorption ranges of Ce-doped anatase titania and Ce-doped titania nanotube were red shifted by Ce-doping. These morphology changes to nanotubes with Ce-doping will be very useful for practical application for decomposing color dyes included amino group in the wasted water.