Green auto-combustion synthesis and characterization of TmVO₄ nanostructures in the presence carbohydrate sugars and their application as Visible-light photocatalyst

The development of photocatalysts with adequate functions, particularly in the visible range, is one of the most significant issues facing scientists since they are essential compounds for the protection of the environment. A primary objective of this work was to simplify the preparation of thulium vanadate (TmVO₄) nanostructures in order to improve their photocatalytic efficiency. By using a facile auto-combustion route, this study presents a new method for fabricating TmVO₄ nanostructures. In order to achieve the desired size and homogeneity of the products, multiple factors were considered. As part of these parameters, several saccharides, such as glucose, fructose, lactose, maltose, and cellulose are analyzed for the first time, as well as the calcination temperature and the molar ratio. Various dye types and dye concentrations were studied to enhance catalyst performance. According to the catalyst activity, TmVO₄ was able to degrade 83.5% of the methyl violet (MV) after 90 min. TmVO₄ was found to be stable in the recycle test, with an efficiency reduction of 14.6% after five cycles.