Modification of photocatalytic activity and antibacterial properties of Mn₂O₃ by Zn ions doping

This study focuses on the fabrication of zinc-doped manganese oxide (Mn₂O₃) nanoparticles (NPs) to unleash their potential as high-performance photocatalysts. Zn-doped Mn₂O₃ nanoparticles (NPs) were prepared via a precipitation method, with fine adjustment of Zn content (3%, 5%, and 10%). The structural evolution from cubic Mn₂O₃ to tetragonal ZnMn₂O₄ was confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD). Energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis confirmed the smooth Zn incorporation, while transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and FESEM revealed the transformative effect of Zn on the particle size and shape. Optical characterizations showed impressive results:UV-Vis DRS revealed a significant reduction in the band gap from 2.26 eV to 1.89 eV, enhancing light absorption. Meanwhile, the photoluminescence (PL) spectra showed vibrant emission peaks at 425, 466, 563, and 623 nm, with the intensity increasing along with the zinc content. The optical prowess of these nanoparticles was validated by the nearly complete degradation of methyl green (MG) dye under visible light. Also, Zn-doped Mn₂O₃ samples were evaluated against harmful pathogens such as S. aureus, E. faecalis, K. pneumoniae, P. aeruginosa, E. coli, and C. albicans.