Improving CMTS Physical Properties Through Potassium Doping for Enhanced Rhodamine B Degradation

This study investigated the enhancement of Cu<sub>2</sub>MnSnS<sub>4</sub> (CMTS) thin films’ photocatalytic properties through potassium (K) doping for rhodamine B degradation under visible light. K-doped CMTS films synthesized using spray pyrolysis technology achieved a 98%...

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Main Authors: Amira Bouali, Olfa Kamoun, Moez Hajji, Ileana Nicoleta Popescu, Ruxandra Vidu, Najoua Turki Kamoun
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2025-07-01
Series:Technologies
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Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/2227-7080/13/7/301
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Summary:This study investigated the enhancement of Cu<sub>2</sub>MnSnS<sub>4</sub> (CMTS) thin films’ photocatalytic properties through potassium (K) doping for rhodamine B degradation under visible light. K-doped CMTS films synthesized using spray pyrolysis technology achieved a 98% degradation efficiency within 120 min. The physical property improvements were quantitatively validated through X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, which confirmed enhanced crystallinity. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed significant modifications in surface morphology as a function of potassium content, highlighting its influence on film growth dynamics. Optical characterization demonstrated a pronounced reduction in transmittance, approaching negligible values at 7.5% potassium doping, and a narrowed optical band gap of 1.41 eV, suggesting superior light absorption capabilities. Photocatalytic performance was significantly enhanced, achieving a Rhodamine B degradation efficiency of up to 98% at 7.5% doping. These enhancements collectively improved the material’s light-harvesting capabilities and charge separation efficiency, positioning K-doped CMTS as a highly effective photocatalyst compared to other ternary and quaternary materials.
ISSN:2227-7080