P-type semiconducting NiO nanoparticles synthesis and its photocatalytic activity

Nickel oxide (NiO) nano-size powder is synthesized using nickel (II) acetate tetrahydrate, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and ammonia as precursors. Applied surfactant is anionic surfactant. The sample was characterized by FT-IR, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results obtained confirm the presence of nickel oxide nano-powders produced during chemical precipitation. Evaluation of the catalytic activity of developed nano-NiO particles were carried out using ultraviolet visible spectra. The uv-vis spectra obtained after ultraviolet irradiation in the presence of nickel oxide can indicate the degradation of tetracycline (TC) and dye Acid red -18 (ponceau 4R). The prepared NiO exhibits that 75% of Acid red -18 has been eliminated after 10 min. The results indicate that optimum concentration of NiO catalyst and the best pH for the degradation of AR were 0.5 g L-1 and pH 7, respectively. The best TC degradation results were obtained with 2 g L−1of the photocatalyst at pH 11.