Sunlight driven improved photocatalytic activity of Mn doped SnO2 nanowires

Sn1-xMnxO2 (x = 0, 0.1, 0.2 and 0.3) were successfully synthesized by simple Co-precipitation technique. The influence of Mn dopant on the crystal structure, surface morphology, optical, magnetic and electrical properties of SnO2 were investigated by various techniques like XRD, IR, TG/DSC, SEM, TEM, EDX, DRS, photoluminescence, magnetic susceptibility and electrical resistivity. XRD pattern reveal formation of tetragonal structure for undoped and Mn doped SnO2. SEM and TEM images of Mn doped SnO2 revealed formation of nanowires of different diameter and length. Mn substitution in SnO2 crystal lattice leads to widening of band gap and paramagnetic behavior. The photocatalytic activity was evaluated by the degradation of Naphthol Blue Black dye under solar light. Enhanced photocatalytic efficiency is exhibited by Sn0.7Mn0.3O2 within 180 min time. 92% reduction in COD value and presence of inorganic ions indicate complete mineralization of the NBB dye. Antibacterial activity of SnO2 towards gram positive and gram negative bacteria is also enhanced with Mn doping.