Green synthesis of Ag@SnO2 nanocomposites for enhancing photocatalysis of nitrogen monoxide removal under solar light irradiation

Abstract Herein, Ag@SnO2 nanocomposite (NC) is prepared by UV-assisted depositing of Ag nanoparticles (NPs) onto hydrothermally synthesized SnO2 NPs surface without any additional assistance. To characterize the NC, transmission electron microscope (TEM) images, selected area electron diffraction (SAED), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) patterns are employed. The understanding of kinetics, photostability, and species lifespan in the NC are thoroughly studied with experiments and time-dependent electron spin resonance (ESR). The Ag@SnO2 exhibits an outstanding NO photocatalytic removal performance (70%) and low conversion of NO2 (4%) after 30 min under solar light. The Ag@SnO2 promises a potential application for air remediation.