Simple synthesis of Co3O4 nanoflakes using a low temperature sol–gel method suitable for photodegradation of dyes

In this work we describe and discuss the synthesis, and characterization of Co3O4 nanoflakes prepared by citric acid based sol–gel method using cobalt nitrate precursor. The average crystalline size of Co3O4 was estimated from the X-ray diffraction peaks of powders using Scherrer’s formula. The size of the particles deduced from TEM agrees with XRD based values. The FTIR confirms formation of Co3O4. The SEM micrographs show the nanoflake morphology. Here we report the lowest temperature sol–gel method of preparation of Co3O4 nanoflakes and its photocatalytic study for the degradation of dye pollutant methylorange.