Synthesis, characterization and photocatalytic activity of CuO nanoflowers

Copper oxide (CuO) nanoflowers were prepared by solution combustion method and glycine was used as fuel. The prepared nanoflowers are monoclinic in crystalline structure. FESEM and HRTEM studies confirmed the flower like structure of the CuO. The CuO nanoflowers were composed of wide nanopetals/sheets. CuO nanoflowers show very good photocatalytic activity. The apparent rate constant of this catalytic reaction was 0.016/min. The estimated direct band gap energy of the CuO was 3 eV. (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.