Growth and characterisation of ZnO micro/nanostructures doped with cerium for photocatalytic degradation applications

ZnO:Ce structures have been obtained by a vapour-solid method. Different dopant concentrations have been used, and the incorporation of cerium in the crystalline structure of zinc oxide has been verified by means of Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy and Raman investigations. The morphology of the structures varies depending on the initial content of Ce in the samples, changing from long and thin rods and wires to “bottle-like” and truncated hexagonal pyramids as the Ce content increases. Cathodoluminescent properties have also been studied, the near band edge and deep level emissions change depending on both Ce content and morphology of the structures. Photocatalysis investigations show that an increase above 5 wt % of cerium oxide in the material causes a slight decrease in the efficiency of these structures in the degradation of the contaminant. •ZnO:Ce structures have been obtained by a vapour - solid method.•The influence of Ce on the cathodoluminescent properties of ZnO has been studied.•These structures have proven effective as photocatalysts.•The lowest Ce content exhibit the highest degradation efficiency.