LAUSR

Abstract ZnO nanoplates and nanoparticle aggregates with enhanced photocatalytic activity were synthesized using a facile wet chemical approach. Atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) results clearly revealed the presence of ZnO nanoplates and nanoparticle aggregates. Photocatalytic removal of rhodamine B, methylene blue and malachite green dyes from water in the presence of synthesized ZnO nanostructures was investigated. ZnO nanoplates showed enhanced photocatalytic activities for degradation of all three dyes in water as compared with ZnO nanoparticle aggregates, which is attributed to the their larger surface area and higher defect concentration leading to enhanced dye adsorption, improved sunlight utilization capability and higher photocatalytic activity of the exposed facets. The tentative mechanisms underlying the formation of ZnO nanoplates and nanoparticle aggregates and their enhanced photocatalytic activity are proposed.