Effective degradation of Rhodamine B using α-MoO3 nanoplates synthesised using thermal decomposition method

Abstract

Abstract MoO3 nanoplates were effectively synthesized using simple thermal decomposition method and comprehensively characterized for structural, optical, dielectric properties. Structural analysis, primarily through x-ray diffraction (XRD), unequivocally confirmed the orthorhombic phase of the synthesized MoO3 nanoplates, establishing their crystalline structure. The optical properties of MoO3 nanoplates were investigated using UV- Vis diffused reflectance spectra, revealing an optical bandgap of 3.0 eV. Photoluminescence (PL) analysis uncovered sub-band transitions within the nanoplates, shedding light on their luminescent behavior and further emphasizing their optical properties. Raman spectroscopy reaffirmed the orthorhombic structure of the MoO3 nanoplates, providing additional structural confirmation. Morphological and compositional analyses, carried out through field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS), showcased the formation of self-assembled hexagonal plate-like structures. This unique morphology holds promise for various applications, especially in photocatalysis. Dielectric and alternating current (AC) conductivity studies confirmed the semiconducting nature of MoO3 nanoplates, a crucial characteristic for their utilization in electronic devices and catalytic processes. Based on these results photocatalytic activity of the synthesized MoO3 was tested for the degradation of Rhodamine- B in aqueous solution. The complete degradation of Rhodamine B obtained demonstrates the efficacy of MoO3 as a photocatalyst, demonstrating its efficacy in environmental remediation and water purification.