Studies on Chitosan modified ZrO2–CeO2 metal oxide and their Photo catalytic activity under solar light irradiation for water remediation

Chitosan modified CeO2/ZrO2 were prepared by co-precipitation method and its photocatalytic activity was studied while exposed to solar light. Various doping concentrations was evaluated and 30 mol % CeO2/ZrO2 doping concentration enhanced higher activity when it was modified into Chitosan employing Orange G dye as a model pollutant while exposed to sun light. The synthesized catalyst was highly crystalline, and its average crystalline size was found to be 30 nm using X-ray diffraction analysis. Structural morphology, functional groups, thermal decomposition temperature and particle size were confirmed by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Fourier Transform-Infra Red, Thermal Gravimetric Analysis and Transmission Electron Microscope analysis. XPS confirms the band alignment and oxidation states of the synthesized photo catalyst. In accordance with the UV-Diffused Reflectance Spectrum, the band gap energy is 2.9 eV. The enhanced photo catalytic activities of the prepared photocatalyst were confirmed by effect of catalyst, effect of dye concentration, effect of electrolytes, kinetics and COD. The reaction follows first order kinetics, and the pseudo first order rate constant was evaluated from the kinetics plot. [Display omitted] •The synthesized catalyst was highly crystalline, and its average crystalline size was found to be 30 nm.•Structural morphology, functional groups, thermal decomposition temperature and particle size were confirmed by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Fourier Transform-Infra Red.•The enhanced photocatalytic activities of the prepared photocatalyst were confirmed.•The synthesized metal oxide to be an effective photo-catalyst and it not only enhances the photocatalytic activity.