LaCo _xFe _1-XO ₃ (0≤x≤1) spherical nanostructures prepared via ultrasonic approach as photocatalysts

Graphical abstract

Highlights

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  Perovskite-type LaCo _xFe _1-XO ₃ ( $0\le x\le 1)$ spherical nanostructures prepared via an ultrasonic method.

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  LaCo _xFe _1-XO ₃ physicochemical properties are well characterized.

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  LaCo _xFe _1-XO ₃ ( $0\le x\le 1)$ nanostructures show high photocatalytic activity and photostability.

Abstract

To harvest the photon energy, a sequence of perovskite-type oxides of LaCo _xFe _1-xO ₃ (0 $\le x\le 1)$ nanostructures with distinct ‘Cobalt’ doping at the position of B-site are successfully prepared via a simple ultrasonic approach as photocatalyst. The crystallinity, phase identification, microstructure, and morphology of perovskite nanocomposites were analyzed to better understand their physicochemical properties. The catalytic efficiency was assessed using Congo Red (CR) dye by visible light irradiation for 30 min. Applying terephthalic acid as a probe molecule, the formation of hydroxyl radicals during the processes was investigated. The photocatalytic efficacy was measured by varying different Co/Fe stoichiometric molar ratios and noticed the order of sequence is 0.2 > 0.6 > 0.4 > 0.8 > 0.5 > 0 > 1 after 30 min of reaction time. Finally using LaCo _0.2Fe _0.8O ₃ nanostructures, cycling studies (n = 3) were performed to determine its photostability and reusability. The photocatalytic methodology proposed in this study was discussed extensively.