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Boosting Photocatalytic Performance of ZnO via Ce-Induced d-Band Modulation: Synthesis and Rhodamine B Degradation
Bingwei Zhong1, Bo Xia1, Nan Wang1
1College of Jiyang, Zhejiang A&F University, Zhuji, China.
Chemistryopen
|July 16, 2026
Summary
This study developed a novel ZnO-based photocatalyst with enhanced sphere-like morphology and a CeO2 heterojunction for efficient degradation of synthetic dyes. The engineered catalyst shows over 50% improved degradation kinetics, offering a promising solution for aquatic pollution.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Environmental Chemistry
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Synthetic dyes are persistent organic pollutants, causing significant ecological and health concerns in aquatic environments.
- Efficient and stable photocatalysts are crucial for effective remediation of dye-contaminated water.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design and synthesize a morphology-controlled, interface-engineered ZnO-based photocatalyst for enhanced synthetic dye degradation.
- To investigate the synergistic effects of morphology and heterojunction formation on photocatalytic activity.
- To develop a magnetically separable and reusable photocatalyst for practical environmental applications.
Main Methods:
- Synthesis of sphere-like ZnO nanoparticles.
- Fabrication of CeO2/ZnO heterojunctions via deposition.
- Characterization of photocatalyst structure and properties.
- Photocatalytic degradation experiments under simulated solar light.
- Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations to elucidate reaction mechanisms.
Main Results:
- Sphere-like ZnO exhibited superior photocatalytic activity compared to other morphologies.
- The CeO2/ZnO heterojunction demonstrated over 50% enhancement in dye degradation kinetics.
- DFT calculations confirmed that interfacial electron transfer facilitates oxygen activation.
- A magnetically separable CeO2/ZnO-ZnFe2O4 composite showed efficient recovery and long-term stability.
Conclusions:
- Morphology control and heterojunction engineering are effective strategies to enhance ZnO-based photocatalyst performance.
- The developed CeO2/ZnO system offers a highly efficient route for degrading persistent organic pollutants in water.
- The magnetically separable composite presents a viable solution for practical, sustainable environmental remediation.
