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Enhancing the photocatalytic performance of ZnO:Gd films produced by spray pyrolysis using methylene blue pollutant

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Abstract

In this study, Gd-doped ZnO (ZnO:Gd) films were produced on glass substrates by ultrasonic spray pyrolysis (USP) technique. It is aimed to get better properties of ZnO films for photocatalytic and photovoltaic applications by doping Gd element. The effect of Gd doping on the structural, optical, surface, and photocatalytic properties of the films was investigated. The wettability of the samples was evaluated using water contact angle measurements. Methylene blue (MB) was chosen as organic pollutant to determine the photocatalytic performance of ZnO:Gd films. Using MB as photocatalyst in 7%-doped ZnO:Gd film, it was successfully degraded at a rate of 92%. Gd doping caused an increase in the photocatalytic activity and organic pollutant adsorption capacity of ZnO films. From the photocatalytic activity tests, it was determined that especially the increasing amount of additive affected the photocatalytic degradation. As a result, Gadolinium (Gd) doping on ZnO films is an effective way to increase the use potential of pure ZnO films in photocatalytic applications.

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Acknowledgements

This study was supported by the Scientific Research Projects Coordination Unit of Eskisehir Osmangazi University within the scope of the project number FBA-2022-2578. Authors are thankful to Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zerrin Günkaya and Asst. Mahmut Öztürk for their help with the water contact angle measurements of the samples.

Funding

This study was supported by the Scientific Research Projects Coordination Unit of Eskisehir Osmangazi University within the scope of the Project Number FBA-2022-2578.

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  1. Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Eskisehir Osmangazi University, TR-26040, Eskisehir, Turkey

    Seniye Karakaya & Leyla Kaba

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  1. Seniye Karakaya
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  2. Leyla Kaba
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Correspondence to Seniye Karakaya.

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Karakaya, S., Kaba, L. Enhancing the photocatalytic performance of ZnO:Gd films produced by spray pyrolysis using methylene blue pollutant. J Mater Sci: Mater Electron 34, 1295 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10854-023-10712-3

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