Synthesis, Characterization and Photocatalytic Activity of LaCaCoCuO3 Nanoparticles Prepared via Sol-gel Process
Namdeo T. Dhokale, Pankaj L. WabaleIntroduction:
Perovskite oxide nanoparticles have attracted significant attention for their promising optical, structural, and photocatalytic properties, particularly in environmental applications such as wastewater treatment. To synthesize La- CaCoCuO3 nanoparticles using the sol-gel method and systematically evaluate their structural, optical, and photocatalytic properties, with a focus on their efficiency in degrading dye pollutants under UV light irradiation.
Method:
LaCaCoCuO3 nanoparticles were synthesized using the sol-gel method. The prepared material was characterized using UV-Visible spectroscopy, FTIR, XRD, and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Photocatalytic activity was assessed by the degradation of methylene blue under UV-light irradiation.
Results:
UV-Visible analysis showed strong absorption in the visible region. FTIR spectra confirmed metal-metal and metal-oxygen vibrations. XRD analysis revealed the formation of a nanocrystalline perovskite phase. SEM images revealed spherical particles with porous morphology. The photocatalyst achieved 90% degradation of methylene blue within 150 minutes under visible light and showed good reusability with only slight efficiency loss after four cycles.
Discussion:
The findings demonstrated that LaCaCoCuO3 nanoparticles synthesized via the sol-gel method possess a stable perovskite structure and favorable morphological features that enhance photocatalytic activity. The strong UV-light response observed in UV-Visible spectroscopy, along with efficient degradation of methylene blue, indicates the materials' potential as an effective photocatalyst for environmental remediation. These results suggest that multi-metal perovskite systems can improve charge transfer and catalytic efficiency compared to conventional materials. The good reusability further supports its practical applicability in wastewater treatment. Overall, this study contributes to the development of sustainable, visible-light-driven photocatalysts for real-world environmental applications.
Conclusion:
The synthesized LaCaCoCuO3 nanoparticles demonstrated a welldefined crystalline structure, suitable optical properties, and porous morphology, all of which contribute to their enhanced photocatalytic performance. The material exhibited high efficiency in degrading methylene blue under visible light irradiation, along with good stability and reusability over multiple cycles. These results indicate that LaCaCoCuO3 is an effective and sustainable photocatalyst, highlighting its strong potential for practical applications in wastewater treatment and environmental remediation.