Synthesis and characterization of zno and al doped zno thin films by sol-gel method and its photocatalytic activity

In this study, ZnO and Al doped ZnO films were produced by Sol-Gel spin coating method. The films were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and UV-vis spectroscopy. Their photocatalytic activity was evaluated by the decomposition of the methyl orange dye using direct sunlight. The ZnO film was able to degrade the test pollutant (methyl orange) under sunlight was 55% after 180 min of irradiation of sun light. However, the Al doped ZnO film presented a very high degradation rate under sunlight (95% degradation). The high activity achieved by the Al doped ZnO film under natural conditions can be potentially applied to water treatment processes.