Rice-like MnO2 nanoparticles: simple and novel thermal decomposition synthesis, characterization and photocatalytic activity using new precursor

Herein, rice-like MnO2 nanoparticles were successfully synthesized by thermal decomposition route of manganese-metal organic framework (Mn-MOF) nanoflowers as a new manganese precursor. Mn-MOF nanoflowers were prepared via a simple hydrothermal approach using 1,3,5-benzentricarboxylic acid as organic ligand and Mn(NO3)(2). Pure cubic phase of rice-like MnO2 nanoparticles were synthesized after calcination of Mn-MOF nanoflowers at 200 A degrees C for 6 h into an autoclave. The morphology and microstructure of the obtained products were characterized by X-ray diffraction patterns, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, Fourier transformed infrared spectrum, scanning electron microscopy and transition electron microscopy. Moreover, the efficiency of MnO2 nanoparticles as a photocatalyst for the decolorization of methylene blue has been evaluated.