Modification of photocatalytic activity and antibacterial properties of Mn2O3 by Zn ions doping
Rabab A. Nasr, Ahmed F. El‐Sayed, G. M. El komy, Gehan T. El‐Bassyouni, Sahar M. Mousa
Abstract
Abstract This study focuses on the fabrication of zinc-doped manganese oxide (Mn 2 O 3 ) nanoparticles (NPs) to unleash their potential as high-performance photocatalysts. Zn-doped Mn 2 O 3 nanoparticles (NPs) were prepared via a precipitation method, with fine adjustment of Zn content (3%, 5%, and 10%). The structural evolution from cubic Mn 2 O 3 to tetragonal ZnMn 2 O 4 was confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD). Energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis confirmed the smooth Zn incorporation, while transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and FESEM revealed the transformative effect of Zn on the particle size and shape. Optical characterizations showed impressive results:UV-Vis DRS revealed a significant reduction in the band gap from 2.26 eV to 1.89 eV, enhancing light absorption. Meanwhile, the photoluminescence (PL) spectra showed vibrant emission peaks at 425, 466, 563, and 623 nm, with the intensity increasing along with the zinc content. The optical prowess of these nanoparticles was validated by the nearly complete degradation of methyl green (MG) dye under visible light. Also, Zn-doped Mn 2 O 3 samples were evaluated against harmful pathogens such as S. aureus, E. faecalis, K. pneumoniae, P. aeruginosa, E. coli, and C. albicans.