Synthesis and Characterization of CuO, TiO2, and CuO-TiO2 Mixed Oxide by a Modified Oxalate Route

Abstract

Copper oxide (CuO), titanium oxide (TiO₂), and Cu-doped TiO₂ nanoparticles have been synthesized by pyrolysis of their corresponding precursors initially prepared by precipitation in aqueous solution using A. carambola fruit juice as a natural source of the precipitating agent (oxalate). The precursors were synthesized and characterized by FTIR, TGA, and PXRD. The results revealed that the precursors obtained were CuC₂O₄, TiO₂(OH⁻)₂C₂O₄, copper-doped titanium hydroxyl oxalate, and copper titanium hydroxyl oxalate. Complete decomposition for the as-prepared precursors containing titanium ions occurs at 600°C while impurity free copper oxalate decomposed at 450°C. The as-prepared precursors were decomposed and calcined at 600°C for 4 hours and the calcination products were characterized by XRD, SEM, and EDX. The results revealed the decomposition products to correspond to CuO, TiO₂, Cu_0.131Ti_0.869O₂, and CuO/TiO₂.