Preparation, spectral characteristics and photocatalytic activity of Eu3+-doped WO3 nanoparticles

Eu3+-WO3 nanoparticles were successfully prepared by the modified method of Pechini. The prepared samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), and UV-vis spectroscopy. Results showed that the Eu3+-WO3 nanoparticles, which had an average external diameter of 10–25 nm, were composed of the different shapes of puncheon and catenary after being pretreated by pH, pressure vessal, and surfactant. Moreover, structural transformation matrix contained different crystals of anorthic and orthorhombic structure. The photocatalytic activities of the nanoparticles were evaluated by photocatalytic decomposition of rhodamine B. Eu3+-WO3 nanoparticles were more efficient than WO3 and TiO2 on sunlight use ratio. Photocatalysis experiments indicated that the Eu3+-WO3 nanoparticles exhibited the highest photocatalytic activity.