Enhanced optical, antibacterial and photocatalytic performance by Sn substitution in Zn_0.97Mn_0.03O nanostructures

Sn-doped Zn_0.97Mn_0.03O nanostructure was synthesized by sol–gel route. The narrow reduction of crystallite size by Sn addition is payable to the distortion induced by Sn⁴⁺ ions and the dissimilarities between ionic radius of Zn²⁺ and Sn⁴⁺ ions. Surface-morphology is significantly tuned towards spherical shape by Sn-doping which is confirmed by both SEM and TEM. Widening of band gap with Sn addition can be explained by Burstein–Moss effect through energy level diagram. The enhanced PL emission is demonstrated by the poor crystallinity and induced high concentration of defects by Sn addition. The combined effect of reduced size and generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) made higher antibacterial efficiency in Zn–Mn–O doped with Sn system. Sn, Mn dual doped ZnO nanostructures are identified as the efficient catalyst for the degradation of methyl orange dye than the other samples. The addition of Sn in Zn–Mn–O nanostructures might enhance the specific surface area by lowering the particle size which might contribute to high dye degradation. In the current studies, Sn doping Zn_0.97Mn_0.03O is identified as multifunctional materials.