Exploration of Photoactive Cd²⁺ Substitutions on V₂O₅ Nanoparticles and Their Catalytic Potential Against the Toxic Dye

This study focuses on the synthesis and broad characterization of cadmium-doped vanadium pentoxide (Cd-doped V₂O₅) nanoparticles via the co-precipitation method, emphasizing the investigation of varying Cd²⁺ concentrations in V₂O₅. The synthesized nanoparticles were extensively characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and UV–Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV–Vis DRS), revealing crystallite sizes ranging from 24 to 29 nm, identifying functional groups, and elucidating bandgap energies from 2.07 to 1.88 eV. Morphological analyses by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) confirmed the presence of rod-like nanostructures without agglomeration. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) confirmed successful Cd²⁺ integration into the V₂O₅ structure, while further characterization via X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and photoluminescence spectroscopy provided insights into valency, electron states, and material affinity. The catalytic activity of Cd-doped V₂O₅ nanoparticles in degrading Rhodamine B (Rh-B) dye was investigated under various conditions. pH variations notably influenced degradation rates, with acidic and alkaline environments demonstrating enhanced degradation capabilities due to electrostatic interactions and increased catalytic activity, respectively. Optimal catalytic efficiency was observed at a nanoparticle concentration of 10 mg, with declining efficiency attributed to surface area saturation at higher concentrations. Increasing dye concentrations inversely correlated with degradation percentages due to reduced hydroxyl radical formation. Reusability studies indicated consistent degradation efficiency over multiple cycles, suggesting promising applications of Cd-doped V₂O₅ nanoparticles in sustainable wastewater treatment.