A simple solid state method to synthesize nanosize ferromagnetic alpha-Fe sub(2) O sub(3) with enhance photocatalytic activity in sunlight

Abstract

An alpha-Fe sub(2)O sub(3) was synthesized by preparing a mixture of iron (III) nitrate with urea as precursor. The yellowish coloured precursor was calcined at 400 degrees C for 2 h, resulting in formation of bright red coloured hematite. The surface properties and catalytic activity were compared with a reference sample prepared without the use of urea. It was observed that the urea induced synthesis resulted in a sample having nanosize and large lattice strain, accompanied by development of fe rromagnetic behavior. The catalytic activity was evaluated for decomposition of H sub(2)O sub(2) through photo-Fenton process in sunlight. The urea synthesized sample showed an usually large photo-Fenton effect and the catalyst could be easily recovered and reused due to its ferromagnetic behavior.