A novel single-step synthesis of N-doped TiO2 via a sonochemical method

Graphical abstract: The N-doped anatase TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles were synthesized by sonochemical method. The as-prepared sample is characterized by XRD, TEM, XPS and UV-Vis DRS. The photocatalytic activity of the photocatalyst was evaluated by the photodegradation of an azo dye direct sky blue 5B. Highlights: {yields} A novel singal-step sonochemical synthesis method for the preparation of anatase N-doped TiO{sub 2} nanocrystalline at low temperature has been devoleped. {yields} The as-prepared sample is characterized by XRD, TEM, XPS and UV-Vis DRS. {yields} The photodegradation of azo dye direct sky blue 5 showed that the N-doped TiO{sub 2} catalyst is of high visible-light photocatalytic activity. -- Abstract: A novel single-step synthetic method for the preparation of anatase N-doped TiO{sub 2} nanocrystalline at low temperature has been devoleped. The N-doped anatase TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles were synthesized by sonication of the solution of tetraisopropyl titanium and urea in water and isopropyl alcohol at 80 {sup o}C for 150 min. The as-prepared sample was characterized by X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and UV-vis absorption spectrum. The product structure depends on the reaction temperature and reaction time. The photocatalytic activity of the as-prepared photocatalyst was evaluated via the photodegradation of an azo dye more » direct sky blue 5B. The results show that the N-doped TiO{sub 2} nanocrystalline prepared via sonication exhibit an excellent photocatalytic activity under UV light and simulated sunlight. « less