Transformation Process and Photocatalytic Activities of Hydrothermally Synthesized Zn₂SnO₄ Nanocrystals

Abstract

In this study, a systematic approach was applied to the hydrothermal synthesis of Zn2SnO4 (ZTO) nanocrystals to gain insight into the fundamental factors controlling phase composition, particle size, crystal morphology and photocatalytic activity. The influence of various operating conditions, such as reaction temperature, alkaline concentration, duration time, and additive surfactants on the treatment process were investigated. By combining the results of X-ray diffraction (XRD), electron microscopy (SEM/TEM/ED/HRTEM), Raman and FT-IR spectroscopy, a complete structural and morphological characterization of the products was performed. The results indicated that the phase transformation probably evolved via a “dissolution−recrystallization” mechanism and accompanying the “Ostwald ripening” process. Furthermore, a correlation between the photocatalytic activity in the UV photodegradation of MB solutions and the particle properties was established.