Photo-Catalytic Decolouration of Rhodamine B Dye Using ZVI Nanopowder Synthesized by Chemical Reduction Method

Background: Photocatalytic degradation of Rhodamine B (RB) Dye was carried out with ZVI nanopowder. The effect of parameters such as the amount of catalyst, concentration of the dye on photo catalytic degradation of RB is studied. Methods: Zero valent iron (ZVI) powder with crystallite size around 50 to 60 nm was prepared by chemical reduction route. The product was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Transmission electron microscope (TEM). Findings: The results reveal that the maximum decolorization (more than 95%) of dye occurred with ZVI catalyst in 6 - 8 hours of UV irradiation. Application: The results suggest that, the ZVI may potentially offer a simple and low-cost option for abatement of dyes. Possible applications of ZVI in water treatment plants are proposed and the potential benefits are discussed.