Synthesis and Characterization of Highly Crystalline Anatase Titania

Abstract

Samarium (Sm) doped titania samples were prepared through sol–gel process by using titanium oxosulphate as precursor for titanium and samarium oxide as a precursor for Sm3+ ions. The main objective of the proposed study is to stabilize the anatase phase of titania up to high temperatures. Thermal analysis showed a weight loss of 21 % on heating up to 1000C in an inert atmosphere. IR analysis showed the complete removal of the surfactant on calcination at 500C for 2 h. The obtained samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction XRD, SEM, UV, TG-DTA & FTIR studies. It was found that the anatase phase of titania was stable up to 850C. The catalyst showed visible light absorption as evident from the UV-VIS spectrum and was found to be an active photo catalyst in sunlight.