Functionalization of Graphene with O and S for Catalytic Degradation of Chlorophenols and Dyes

Abstract

Graphene, functionalized with the heteroatoms like nitrogen, oxygen and sulphur atoms has been well explored for a wide range of applications but only few reports are available on its adsorption and photocatalytic application in the degradation of chlorophenols and organic dyes. A simple and energy-efficient process to prepare graphene oxide and sulphur doped graphene oxide was developed. The micro structure and surface morphology were confirmed by the analytical techniques of Powder X-ray diffractogram (PXRD), Fourier Transformed Raman Spectroscopy (FT-Raman), Scanning Electron Microscopy. The results were suggestive of the structures suitable for screening their catalytic activity in the degradation of the highly toxic polychlorophenols and organic dyes. The adsorption and photo catalytic properties of the asprepared samples were screened for the degradation process and it was found that sulphur doped graphene oxide showed more positive results for the degradation of chlorophenols than graphene oxide. Under the given experimental conditions the decoloration of dyes were not satisfactory. Ultimately, the study provided an economical and efficient, method for tuning graphene structures for the removal of pollutants in wastewater.