Description:FIELD OF INVENTION
[001] The present disclosure belongs to the technical field of nanotechnology. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a strontium cerium oxide (SrCeO3) nanoparticles. Further, the present disclosure also relates to a method of preparation of a strontium cerium oxide (SrCeO3) nanoparticles. The present disclosure also provides a method of photodegradation of dye.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[002] Background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
[003] Nanotechnology has undergone an unprecedented upsurge in all spheres of techniques because of its one-of-a-kind nature in controlling substances at the nanoscale, which is between 1 and 100 nm. The properties of materials shown at this scale level are exceptional and have never been seen before in such combinations, making it possible to explore their innovative benefits, such as increased reactivity, conductivity, or mechanical strength [Gohar et al., Mater. Des., 2024, 241, 112930; Khan et al., Nanotechnology for Oil-Water Separation., 2024, 403-436]. This has resulted in ground-breaking advances in medicine, electronics, materials, science, and environmental remediation. Nanotechnology gives such precision that it allows for the creation of unique structures and opens possibilities for the next innovations, such as novel drug delivery systems, extremely efficient energy storage devices, or advanced sensors [Dippong et al., Nanomaterials, 2024, 14(2), 145; Gadore et al., RSC Adv., 2024, 14(5), 3447-3472]. The fact that nanotechnology is highly versatile and can revolutionize scientific research is one of the main factors that continues to spur its wide adoption across different fields of science.
[004] Nanophosphors, with their high luminescence efficiency and tunable band gap energies, play a very important role in advanced display technologies and catalysis [Majani et al., J. Solid State Chem., 2024, 329, 124360; Venugopal et al., J. Solid State Chem., 2021, 296, 121975; Hkiri et al., Catal. Commun., 2024, 187, 106851; Aldeen et al., J. Phys. Chem. Solid., 2022, 160, 110313]. The synthesis route used is a principal factor in shaping the physicochemical properties of the nanoparticles, dictating functional performance [Rezaei et al., Small, 2024, 20 (5), 2304848]. The bio-assisted solution combustion method is a relatively new and eco-friendly technique based on the benefits of using biochemical agents to promote better nanoparticle formation with increased characteristics [Abd-Elkader et al., Crystals, 2023, 13(7), 1081]. The solution combustion method of bio-assistance is a process that entails the burning of precursor-solution-containing metal salts and bio-template, in most cases sourced from plant extract or microbial sources. This method not only offers a harmless, economical fabrication process for nanoparticle synthesis but also presents an environmentally tolerant facet to the created particles [Das et al., Healthcare And Sustainability, Springer, Singapore, 2022, 21–34]. This method of linear structure synthesis uses biological entities as a source of reducing and stabilizing properties to generate particles with the desired size, morphology, and surface characteristics.
[005] Over the recent decades, environmental pollution problems have grown in popularity, and today, there is an urgent need for sustainable remediation strategy solutions that have been studied intensively in the field of nanoparticle-based environmental technologies [Taghavi et al., Sci. Rep. 14 (1) (2024) 6755; Moradnia et al., Appl. Organomet. Chem. 38 (3) (2024) e7315; Majani et al., Mater. Sci. Semicond. Process. 182 (2024) 108674; Taghavi wt al., Environ. Pollut., 2024, 358, 124534; Pangestu et al., Ceram. Int., 2024, 50 (18), 34321–34330]. The SrCeO3 nanoparticles have a unique crystal structure and chemical composition that have shown remarkable potential in fields like optoelectronics, forensics, and catalytic activities; hence, they are the most deserving candidate for organic dye-degrading pollutants [Chen et al., Surf. Interfaces, 2023, 38, 10283; Viesca-Villanueva et al., J. Photochem. Photobiol. Chem., 2021, 410, 113139]. Water resources are safeguarded from one of the biggest threats important to organic dyes that are used in numerous industries, especially in the textile, pharmaceutical, and paper industries [Islam et al., Environ. Sci. Pollut. Control Ser., 2023, 30 (4), 9207–9242; Tkaczyk et al., Sci. Total Environ., 2020, 717, 137222]. SrCeO3 nanoparticles’ capability to catalyze the degradation of those pollutants promises an efficient and eco-friendly solution, which will be used in treating this challenge [Bashir et al., Coord. Chem. Rev., 2023, 492, 215286]. Among the efficient materials, SrCeO3 presents fine photocatalytic activity under visible light due to the enhancement in the degradation ability to break those complex dye molecules. Chemical stability and a high surface area of the material further enhance its degradation efficiency by providing more active sites for dye interaction. More importantly, due to its nontoxic nature, SrCeO3 is suited to sustainable water treatments, making it an appropriate measure for environmental friendliness. The functional mechanism of this degradation process includes interaction between the nanoparticles and the dye molecules and the production of reactive oxygen.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[006] An objective of the present disclosure is to provide a method of preparation of a strontium cerium oxide (SrCeO3) nanoparticles.
[007] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a strontium cerium oxide (SrCeO3) nanoparticles by using aloe vera gel.
[008] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a gel/solution combustion method for the preparation of a strontium cerium oxide (SrCeO3) nanoparticles.
[009] Still another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a simple, cost-effective bio assisted solution combustion method is utilized in fabricating SrCeO3 nanoparticles.
[0010] Further objective of the present disclosure is to provide a significant potential for environmental remediation by enhancing the degradation of pollutants and improving the sustainability of cleaning processes.
[0011] Yet another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a method of photodegradation of dye by using strontium cerium oxide (SrCeO3) nanoparticles.

SUMMARY
[0012] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in Detailed Description section. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.
[0013] Accordingly, in one aspect, the present disclosure relates to a method of preparation of a strontium cerium oxide (SrCeO3) nanoparticles comprising: a) mixing 30 to 50 % w/w of a strontium salt precursor and 50 to 70 % w/w of a cerium salt precursor to obtain a first mixture; b) dissolving 30 to 70 % w/v of the first mixture in a solvent followed by adding 30 to 70 % v/v of the aloe vera gel to obtain a homogeneous second mixture; c) heating the second mixture in a pre-heated muffle furnace to obtain a product; and d) grounding the product into powder form and calcined it to obtain a strontium cerium oxide (SrCeO3) nanoparticles.
[0014] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a strontium cerium oxide (SrCeO3) nanoparticles is prepared by a strontium salt precursor, a cerium salt precursor and an aloe vera gel, wherein the nanoparticles has a particle size in the range of 10 to 50 nm.
[0015] Still another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method of photodegradation of dye comprising: dispersing 0.01 to 0.1 % w/v of the strontium cerium oxide (SrCeO3) nanoparticles as defined above on 10 ppm of dye solution under dark with continuously stirring at a speed ranging from 750 to 1000 rpm for a time period ranging from 5 min to 2 h followed by centrifuged for a time period ranging from 0 to 2 h for complete degradation of the dye.
[0016] Various objects, features, aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing FIG.s in which like numerals represent like features.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] The accompanying drawing(s) are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure. The diagrams are for illustration only, which thus is not a limitation of the present disclosure.
[0018] FIG. 1 illustrates detailed representation of synthesis of SrCeO3 NPs.
[0019] FIG. 2 illustrates PXRD profile of SrCeO3 NPs aligning with the JCPDS #01-083-1156.
[0020] FIG. 3 illustrates W–H Plot through PXRD profile, verifying the crystallite size and strain component of SrCeO3 NPs.
[0021] FIG. 4 illustrates rietveld refinement of obtained PXRD pattern (a), 2D (b), and 3D (c) electron density (ED) mapping of a unit cell obtained through GFourier analysis.
[0022] FIG. 5 illustrates UV spectrum of as-obtained SrCeO3 NPs and band gap evaluation using Tauc plot (inset).
[0023] FIG. 6 illustrates SEM images of SrCeO3 NPs in different magnification (a) 10 μm, (b) 3 μm, (c) 2 μm, and (d) 1 μm.
[0024] FIG. 7 illustrates EDS spectrum affirming the precursor elements.
[0025] FIG. 8 illustrates TEM images at (a) 200 nm, (b) 50 nm, and (c) 20 nm magnification of the SrCeO3 NPs. (d) SAED image and (e and f) HRTEM images for d-spacing evaluation.
[0026] FIG. 9 illustrates FTIR spectrum of as-obtained SrCeO3 NPs showing the prominent stretching bands of the different functional groups.
[0027] FIG. 10 illustrates Raman spectrum of as-obtained SrCeO3 NPs affirming the precursor functional groups.
[0028] FIG. 11 illustrates Excitation and Emission spectrum of as-obtained SrCeO3 NPs.
[0029] FIG. 12 illustrates (a) N2 adsorption-desorption isotherm curve, (b) BET adsorption plot, and (c) pore size distribution curve of as-obtained SrCeO3 NPs.
[0030] FIG. 13 illustrates time-dependent SrCeO3 NPs effect on absorption spectrum of TY dye (a), degradation rate v/s irradiation time plot (b), reusability studies (c), and pH variation curve on degradation rate (d).
[0031] FIG. 14 illustrates (a) 0th and (b) 1st order kinetic studies of degradation of TY dye by prepared SrCeO3 NPs.
[0032] FIG. 15 illustrates time-dependent dye dosage (A) and photocatalyst dosage (B) effect on degradation rate.
[0033] FIG. 16 illustrates scavenger test against selected scavengers on degradation rate of TY dye.
[0034] FIG. 17 illustrates detailed schematic representation of degradation mechanism of TY dye and its decolorization.
[0035] FIG. 18 illustrates LC-MS based prediction of plausible degradation pathways of TY dye.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0036] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
[0037] All publications herein are incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. Where a definition or use of a term in an incorporated reference is inconsistent or contrary to the definition of that term provided herein, the definition of that term provided herein applies and the definition of that term in the reference does not apply.
[0038] Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, the appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.
[0039] In some embodiments, numbers have been used for quantifying weights, percentages, ratios, and so forth, to describe and claim certain embodiments of the invention and are to be understood as being modified in some instances by the term “about.” Accordingly, in some embodiments, the numerical parameters set forth in the written description and attached claims are approximations that can vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by a particular embodiment. In some embodiments, the numerical parameters should be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forth the broad scope of some embodiments of the invention are approximations, the numerical values set forth in the specific examples are reported as precisely as practicable.
[0040] The numerical values presented in some embodiments of the invention may contain certain errors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in their respective testing measurements.
[0041] Unless the context requires otherwise, throughout the specification which follows, the word “comprise” and variations thereof, such as “comprises” and “comprising” are to be construed in an open, inclusive sense that is as “including, but not limited to.”
[0042] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0043] The recitation of ranges of values herein is merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each value falling within the range. Unless otherwise indicated herein, each individual value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. Furthermore, the ranges defined throughout the specification include the end values as well, i.e., a range of 1 to 10 implies that both 1 and 10 are included in the range. For the avoidance of doubt, the applicant shall be entitled to any equivalents according to applicable law.
[0044] All methods described herein can be performed in a suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the invention.
[0045] Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and/or patentability. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the specification is herein deemed to contain the group as modified.
[0046] The description that follows, and the embodiments described therein, is provided by way of illustration of an example, or examples, of particular embodiments of the principles and aspects of the present disclosure. These examples are provided for the purposes of explanation, and not of limitation, of those principles and of the disclosure.
[0047] It should also be appreciated that the present disclosure can be implemented in numerous ways, including as a system, a method or a device. In this specification, these implementations, or any other form that the invention may take, may be referred to as processes. In general, the order of the steps of the disclosed processes may be altered within the scope of the invention.
[0048] The headings and abstract of the invention provided herein are for convenience only and do not interpret the scope or meaning of the embodiments.
[0049] The following discussion provides many example embodiments of the inventive subject matter. Although each embodiment represents a single combination of inventive elements, the inventive subject matter is considered to include all possible combinations of the disclosed elements. Thus, if one embodiment comprises elements A, B, and C, and a second embodiment comprises elements B and D, then the inventive subject matter is also considered to include other remaining combinations of A, B, C, or D, even if not explicitly disclosed.
[0050] The term “or”, as used herein, is generally employed in its sense including “and/or” unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.
[0051] The terms “weight percent,” “wt-%,” “percent by weight,” “% by weight,” and variations thereof, as used herein, refer to the concentration of a substance as the weight of that substance divided by the total weight of the composition and multiplied by 100. It is understood that, as used here, “percent,” “%,” and the like are intended to be synonymous with “weight percent,” “wt-%,” etc.
[0052] Various terms are used herein to the extent a term used is not defined below, it should be given the broadest definition persons in the pertinent art have given that term as reflected in printed publications and issued patents at the time of filing.
[0053] An embodiment of the present disclosure is to provide a method of preparation of a strontium cerium oxide (SrCeO3) nanoparticles comprising: a) mixing 30 to 50 % w/w of a strontium salt precursor and 50 to 70 % w/w of a cerium salt precursor to obtain a first mixture; b) dissolving 30 to 70 % w/v of the first mixture in a solvent followed by adding 30 to 70 % v/v of the aloe vera gel to obtain a homogeneous second mixture; c) heating the second mixture in a pre-heated muffle furnace to obtain a product; and d) grounding the product into powder form and calcined it to obtain a strontium cerium oxide (SrCeO3) nanoparticles.
[0054] In some embodiment, the strontium salt precursor is selected from a group comprising of Sr(NO3)2, (Sr(CH3COO)2) and combination thereof. Preferably, the strontium salt precursor is Sr(NO3)2.
[0055] In some embodiment, the cerium salt precursor is selected from a group comprising of Ce(NO3)3.6H2O, (Ce(CH3COO)3·xH2O and combination thereof. Preferably, the cerium salt precursor is Ce(NO3)3.6H2O.
[0056] In some embodiment, the solvent is selected from a group comprising of water, ethanol and combination thereof. Preferably, the solvent is water.
[0057] In some embodiment, the pre-heated muffle furnace has a temperature ranging from 450 to 570 °C. Preferably, the temperature ranging from 450 to 560 °C. More preferably, the temperature ranging from 450 to 550°C.
[0058] In some embodiment, the heating in step c) is carried out at a temperature ranging from 400 to 600 °C for a time period ranging from 5 min to 25 min. Preferably, the temperature ranging from 450 to 550 °C for a time period ranging from 10 min to 20 min. More preferably, the temperature ranging from 490 to 510 °C for a time period ranging from 10 min to 15 min.
[0059] In some embodiment, the calcination in step d) is carried out at a temperature ranging from 1000 to 1200 °C for a time period ranging from 1 h to 5 h. Preferably, the temperature ranging from 1050 to 1150 °C for a time period ranging from 2 h to 4 h. More preferably, the temperature is 1100 °C for a time period of 3 h.
[0060] Another embodiment of the present disclosure is to provide a strontium cerium oxide (SrCeO3) nanoparticles is prepared by a strontium salt precursor, a cerium salt precursor and an aloe vera gel, wherein the nanoparticles has a particle size in the range of 10 to 50 nm. Preferably, the particle size in the range of 20 to 50 nm. More preferably, the particle size in the range of 30 to 40 nm.
[0061] In some embodiment, the nanoparticle has a surface area ranging from 10 to 50 m2.g-1, mean pore radium ranging from 1 to 10 nm and total pore volume ranging from 0.01 to 0.1 cm3.g-1. Preferably, the nanoparticle has a surface area ranging from 10 to 40 m2.g-1, mean pore radium ranging from 1 to 5 nm and total pore volume ranging from 0.01 to 0.05 cm3.g-1. More preferably, the nanoparticle has a surface area ranging from 15 to 30 m2.g-1, mean pore radium ranging from 2 to 5 nm and total pore volume ranging from 0.02 to 0.05 cm3.g-1.
[0062] In some embodiment, the nanoparticles has an X-ray powder diffraction pattern (CuKα) comprising peaks at 2-theta about 20.64°, 23.05°, 29.29°, 34.74°, 37.78°, 42.03°, 47.35°, 48.09°, 51.58°, 52.50°, 61.00°, 69.19°, 77.68°, and 84.82°.
[0063] Still another embodiment of the present disclosure is to provide a method of photodegradation of dye comprising: dispersing 0.01 to 0.1 % w/v of the strontium cerium oxide (SrCeO3) nanoparticles as defined above on 10 ppm of dye solution under dark with continuously stirring at a speed ranging from 750 to 1000 rpm for a time period ranging from 5 min to 2 h followed by centrifuged for a time period ranging from 0 to 2 h for complete degradation of the dye.
[0064] In some embodiment, the strontium cerium oxide (SrCeO3) nanoparticles are dispersed in the dye solution ranging from 0.01 to 0.09 % w/v or 0.01 to 0.08 % w/v or 0.01 to 0.07 % w/v or 0.02 to 0.06 % w/v or 0.03 to 0.05 % w/v or 0.04 % w/v.
[0065] In some embodiment, the dye solution is titan yellow dye and the like.
[0066] In a preferred embodiment, the stirring speed ranging from 800 to 1000 rpm for a time period of 1 h.
[0067] In a preferred embodiment, the centrifugation is carried out for a time period ranging from 0 to 1.5 h.
[0068] In some embodiment, the degradation rate is evaluated using the relation,

[0069] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the disclosure, other and further embodiments of the disclosure may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The invention is not limited to the described embodiments, versions or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention when combined with information and knowledge available to the person skilled in the art.
EXAMPLES
[0070] The present invention is further explained in the form of following examples. However, it is to be understood that the following examples are merely illustrative and are not to be taken as limitations upon the scope of the invention.
Example 1:
(A) Preparation of AV gel
[0071] The Aloe vera plant was used in preparing bio-fuel for solution combustion method, which was collected from the botanical garden located at the University of Mysore, Karnataka, India, in the month of October 2023. The obtained leaves were washed thoroughly and skinned for gel-like substance called Aloe vera (AV) gel. Later, the same was vigorously stirred and stored for further experiment.
(B) Synthesis of SrCeO3 NPs
[0072] A typical bio-mediated solution combustion method was employed in synthesizing SrCeO3 NPs. Initially precursors, Sr(NO3)2 (2.11 g) and Ce(NO3)3.6H2O (3.26 g) were weighed stoichiometrically and transferred into a porcelain dish. The mixture was dissolved using double distilled water and 5 mL AV gel was added, mixed well to get homogeneous mixture. The same was then kept inside a pre-heated muffle furnace maintained at 500 ±5 °C for 12 min to undergo combustion reaction. Furthermore, the product was then grounded into powder form and calcined at 1100 °C for 3h to get the desired SrCeO3 NPs. The final product was stored in a desiccator and utilized for further characterization. Fig. 1 demonstrates the synthesis of SrCeO3 NPs.
Sr(NO3)2+Ce(NO3)3+CxHyOz→SrCeO3+nCO2+mH2O+kN2

(C) Characterization
(i) PXRD analysis
[0073] PXRD analysis is one of the most important techniques used in investigating the phase and structure details in nanophosphors which plays a major part in various fields. PXRD analysis was also utilized for structural data regarding the fabricated SrCeO3 NPs. Fig. 2 shows the PXRD profile of the as-fabricated SrCeO3 NPs with and without fuel well aligning with the JCPDS card #01-083-1156 of Orthorhombic phase with lattice parameters a = 6.1505, b = 8.5867, c = 6.0113 Å and α = β = γ = 90°. The cell volume was estimated to be 317.47 Å3. The peak at 16.84° observed in with fuel pattern differs the material from without fuel. The diffraction peaks at 20.64°, 23.05°, 29.29°, 34.74°, 37.78°, 42.03°, 47.35°, 48.09°, 51.58°, 52.50°, 61.00°, 69.19°, 77.68°, and 84.82° were assigned in accordance with structural analysis to crystal planes (101), (111), (121), (112), (131), (202), (141), (103), (321), (123), (242), (323), (044), and (163), respectively, which were utilized in evaluating the crystallite size through Scherrer’s relation (2),

[0074] In which, Dhkl; crystallite size, βhkl; FWHM (Full Width Half Maximum) of the diffraction peaks obtained, θ; diffracting angle, and λ; wavelength of the X rays used. 0.9 is specifically the shape factor for spherical nanoparticles approximation and crystallite size was being calculated to be 35.38 nm. The same was verified on plotting the Williamson-Hall (W–H) relation (2) by using the obtained FWHM values as depicted in Fig. 3. The obtained value (37.15 nm) was well in accordance with the crystallite size derived from the Scherrer’s relation. The same was utilized in evaluating dislocation density (δ = 1/D2hkl) and found to be 7.9 × 10-4 m-2. Also, the strain component (ε) was evaluated to be 0.096 with a R2 value of 0.984.

[0075] Furthermore, the obtained PXRD data was subjected to refinements using the Rietveld method through FullProf suit software. Fig. 4a depicts the obtained results with χ2 = 15.2, Rp = 55.1, Rwp = 76.9, and Rexp = 6.00. Furthermore, for extended information about the electron distribution inside the unit cell, the GFourier tool in FullProf was utilized in mapping electrons. This analysis, performing Fourier Transforms on structural factors throughout the unit cell, presents the atomic locations inside the unit cell. Fig. 4(b) and (c) depicts the 2D and 3D electron density mapping of the prepared SrCeO3 sample.
(B) Absorption studies
[0076] Diffused Reflectance spectrum (DRS) (Fig. 5) ranging between 250 nm and 700 nm was recorded for as-prepared SrCeO3 NPs. The broad-banding in the range of 400–550 nm was observed, which was attributed for effective charge transfer mechanism from O2- (2p) level to Ce3+ (4f) level in the SrCeO3 sites. This was later used in evaluating the band-gap energy (inset of Fig. 4) using Kubelka-Munk relation (4).

Where; R refers to reflection coefficient and λ to wavelength. The band gap was found to be 2.63 eV, which makes the prepared SrCeO3 NPs suitable for UV light driven photocatalysis.
(C) Microscopical studies
[0077] Conducting morphological analysis for nanomaterials multifunctional applications elucidates their structural intricacies crucial for optimizing diverse functionalities. Hence, the prepared SrCeO3 NPs underwent morphological analysis and precursor affirmation. Fig. 6 depicts the SEM images of SrCeO3 NPs at different magnification (3 μm, 2 μm, 1 μm, and 300 nm) exhibiting the coral structures of the prepared sample. Furthermore, the confirmation of elemental composition of all the precursors used in the synthesis process were done by conducting electron diffraction analysis shown in Fig. 7. The use of AV gel was confirmed on observing the C peak with weight% of 10.8 at ~0.2 eV.
[0078] Further insights about the morphology of the prepared sample were studies by subjecting the same to TEM analysis at different magnifications as shown in Fig. 8a (@ 200 nm), 8b (@ 50 nm), and 8c (@ 20 nm). Also, the crystallinity of the sample was vindicated by SAED image (Fig. 8d). Later, the d-spacing was evaluated using the HRTEM images as depicted in Fig. 8e and f.
(D) FTIR analysis
[0079] FTIR technique is invaluable for the multifunctional nanomaterials as it provides information about the various functional groups present in the sample. Fig. 9 shows the IR spectrum recorded between 4000 cm-1 and 500 cm-1. Band noticed in the range of 650–900 cm-1 was assigned to the metal-oxygen (Ce–O) stretching. On the other hand, metal-carbonate (SrCO3) vibrations were confirmed on observing a strong band from 1200 cm-1 to 1600 cm-1 centered at 1431 cm-1, attributing to the carbonate formation during the synthesis process. Furthermore, characteristic CO2 and OH groups were also confirmed on observing two bands centered at 2100 cm-1 and 3750 cm-1. The FTIR spectrum of Aloe Vera gel evident that the phenolic O–H and C–O groups of Aloe Vera are responsible for the formation of SrCeO3 NPs.
(E) Raman studies
[0080] The Raman spectrum of a photocatalyst represents very valuable structural and chemical information, and charge carrier transportation. It forms the basis of knowledge and improvements in terms of efficiency and stability in applied photocatalysis. Fig. 10 shows the Raman spectrum of as-prepared SrCeO3 NPs, recorded between 50 cm-1 and 600 cm-1. A broad band from 390 cm-1 to 470 cm-1 centered at 459.78 cm-1 is owning to the Ce–O stretching vibrational modes in the cerium and oxygen symmetry. Here, the Ce3+ ions occupy the centrosymmetric sites in the structure, while the oxygenated modes are of the Raman active vibrations which implicates only motion of the oxygen ion. Furthermore, several modes of wavenumber in the range of 150 cm-1 to 250 cm-1 were observed suggesting the occupation of heavier Sr2+ ions in the non-centrosymmetric sites in the structure.
(F) PL studies
[0081] Photoluminescence spectroscopy is a primary, non-invasive tool which allows for the piecing together of the internal electronic structures of nanomaterials. If light falls on the sample, energy is transferred into it, and then is made to be excited by a process called photoexcitation. This is an excess of energy that dissipates in different ways. One of the possible processes is releasing light from the material, the luminescence. On the other hand, in this phenomenon, the excitation and the emission are both due to photons, therefore is called as photoluminescence. Thus, by means of analysis of emission intensity and spectral profiles of photoluminescence the knowledge about the nature of material is acquired. Fig. 11 shows the excitation and emission spectra of as-obtained SrCeO3 NPs, where 469 nm emission monitored excitation is banding in the range of 255 nm–300 nm attributed for effective charge transfer between Ce3+ and terminal oxygen sites. Furthermore, an emission spectrum monitored at 288 nm excitation was recorded 370 nm–650 nm, showing a broad emission band centered near 450 nm affirming it as the Charge Transfer (O2- → Ce3+) band. The results obtained confirm a prominent blue emission for the prepared SrCeO3 NPs.
(G) Surface are analysis
[0082] The prepared sample was subjected to BET surface area analysis at 200° for 2 h to know about the Surface area, pore volume, and pore size. Fig. 12a depicts the adsorption/desorption isotherm curve along with the pore size distribution curve of as-prepared SrCeO3 NPs. The results of N2 adsorption/desorption curve affirmed the classification of type II involving an H3 hysteresis curve, suggesting the mesoporous nature of SrCeO3 NPs. The observed surface area, mean pore radius, and total pore volume was found to be 23.294 m2g-1, 3.155 nm, and 0.03675 cm3g-1, respectively. The International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry has categorized the porous materials based on their pore sizes and diameter (d) into three types: microporosity (d < 2 nm), mesoporous (2 nm < d < 50 nm), and microporous (d > 50 nm). Fig. 12c depict the pore size distribution curve indicating that the sample has two major peaks at 14.268 nm and 3.922 nm.
Example 2: Dye eradication studies
[0083] It is the process of decolorization of dyes, which is very significant because synthetic dyes used in industries are so hazardous to health and the environment. Most of the artificial dyes in use today are known to be carcinogenic and mutagenic which ever had a negative impact on light transmission and photosynthesis which in return results in oxygen depletion and restrictions on the subsequent uses of the water for points such as recreation uses, potable water uses and for irrigation uses. One such identified synthetic dye is Titan Yellow (TY), an anionic dye reagent of chlorine-substituted triazines. The degradation of Titan Yellow dye is a crucial issue due to its potential toxicity and environmental impact. Photocatalysis aims to provide fast and cost-effective water purification, with adsorption capacities ranging from 30 to 59 mg/g depending on the specific nanoparticle composition. The necessity of studying TY dye degradation arises from its widespread use in various industries and the potential hazards it poses to the environment and living organisms. The degradation of Titan Yellow dye is essential for minimizing its environmental impact and ensuring the safety of aquatic ecosystems.
[0084] Fig. 13 (a) depicts the time-dependent effect of catalyst, SrCeO3 NPs, on the absorption wavelength of TY dye. The absorption spectrum was recorded on driving 3 mL of dye solution having the catalyst SrCeO3 NPs at 3rd, 5th, 10th, 20th, 30th, 40th, 50th, and 60th minutes of UV irradiation. The results clearly confirm the 97.67 % degradation of the dye molecule (Fig. 13 (b)).
[0085] The pH level of the degrading solvent plays a vital role in influencing the degradation rate. Differences in potency can be achieved by altering the pH and degradation rate because of its effects on the chemical reactions involved in producing harmless dye by-products; it is essential to understand and control the pH of the solvent for better degradation of natural products in various bottles. Furthermore, reusability studies were also conducted by recovering the catalyst after the absorbance of 60th min. Results found a notable consistency even after 6th usage (Fig. 13 c). Fig. 13 (d) shows the evaluation of pH effect on TY dye degradation rate affirming an effective pH value of 4, where the degradation rate is maximum.
[0086] As demonstrated in Fig. 14, the absorption studies were further employed in determining the kinetics that is involved in the degradation of TY dye by using the 0th and 1st kinetics equations. The results obtained here define the degradation process in a good manner, and it matches with the first order equation where k1 value was estimated as 0.118 with an R2 of 0.990. Furthermore, the effect of dye and photocatalyst dosage on degradation rate at different instants of irradiation time was also studied as shown in Fig. 15. Results suggested the prominent dye and photocatalyst dosage as 10 ppm and 40 mg, respectively. Table 1 shows various materials involved in degrading organic dyes.
Table 1: Various materials involved in eradicating organic pollutants.
SL. No Material Pollutant Eradication rate (%) Reference
1 LaMnO3:
Ca2+ Methylene Blue 68.52 Nayak et al., Results in Chemistry, 2023, 6, 101104
2 LaFeO3 Malachite Green 88.70 Saleem et al., Inorg. Chem. Commun., 2023, 158, 111580
3 CoMnO3 Congo Red 95.00 Mondal et al., J. Environ. Chem. Eng., 2024, 12 (2), 112385
4 DyCrO3:
Mn2 Rhodamine-B and
Methylene Blue 92 and 77 respectively Rani et al., J. Sol. Gel Sci. Technol., 2024, 109 (2), 483–501
5 SrFeO3:
La3+ Methylene Blue 82 Shabbir et al., Mater. Res. Bull., 2024, 179, 112970
6 SrCeO3 Titan yellow 97.67 Present disclosure

[0087] The prepared SrCeO3 NPs have semiconducting nature; On exposing to the UV–Visible light, an electron (e-) from the valence band is promoted up to the conduction band and leaving behind a positive hole (h+). Oxygen species, one way, remove electrons from water molecules at the surface through (h+) or (e-) reduction and form superoxide ions (O2-). However, both are very reactive hydroxyl radicals that react on the dye molecules to allow for decomposition to smaller intervals and are non-hazardous to carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O). It is affirmed from the scavenger test (Fig. 16) conducted against degradation rate by selecting suitable scavengers (Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, p-Benzoquinone, and Isopropanol) that O2- and ⋅OH radicals are prominently responsible for the TY dye degradation. Also, a detailed degradation mechanism and decolorization of TY dye is depicted in Fig. 17.
[0088] The degradation of Titan Yellow proceeds in two different pathways, as evident from the reaction Figure 18. Pathway-1 consists of the cleavage of TY dye into molecule A (C28H14N5O6S4) that underwent structural fragmentation, giving an intermediate compound B (C26H16N6S2). This compound is further degraded into smaller thiophene-based units, such as C (C13H11N3S), D (C12H10N3S), and E (C13H12N2S), indicating a stepwise azo bond cleavage and heterocyclic unit cleavage.
[0089] Pathway-2 is an alternative route, where the dye molecule undergoes reaction to give F (C28H18N5NaO6S4) due to interaction with sodium ions, possibly through ion exchange or oxidative conversion. Degradation of F continues to give rise to intermediates G (C14H11N3NaO3S2) and H (C14H11N2O3S2) through hydrolysis and desulfonation. These intermediates then degrade to lower thiophene-derived compounds, I (C14H13N3S) and J (C14H12N2S), respectively, showing the elimination of sulfonyl groups and further reduction of the structure. The suggested degradation pathway emphasizes the significance of azo bond cleavage, oxidation, and desulfonation in the degradation of Titan Yellow. Knowledge of these pathways is beneficial in understanding its environmental fate and possible degradation pathways for wastewater treatment purposes.

ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION
[0090] The present disclosure provides fabrication of SrCeO3 NPs by means of the gel/solution combustion approach and the comprehensive analysis over structural, morphological and optical properties.
[0091] The PXRD analysis revealed that SrCeO3 nanophosphors exhibited a predominant orthorhombic phase alignment, with the calculated crystallite size at 35.38 nm that was further supported by the Williamson-Hall plot.
[0092] Absorption studies revealed a specific band-gap value of 2.63 eV which is a pointer to possible optoelectronic applications.
[0093] Scanning electron microscopy revealed the coral-like structure, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy confirmed the presence of precursor elements. FT-IR spectroscopy revealed the presence of metal-carbonate vibrations and metal-oxygen stretching, whereas Raman spectroscopy displayed the typical Ce–O stretching.
[0094] The excitation and emission spectra detected successful charge transfer, indicating the nanophosphors’ possible use in photodegradation applications.
[0095] The prepared SrCeO3 nanophosphors are applied in the degradation of Titan Yellow dye with the result of a high 97.67 % degradation, which followed first order kinetics with a rate constant of 0.118.

, Claims:1. A method of preparation of a strontium cerium oxide (SrCeO3) nanoparticles comprising:
a) mixing 30 to 50 % w/w of a strontium salt precursor and 50 to 70 % w/w of a cerium salt precursor to obtain a first mixture;
b) dissolving 30 to 70 % w/v of the first mixture in a solvent followed by adding to 30 to 70 % v/v of the aloe vera gel to obtain a homogeneous second mixture;
c) heating the second mixture in a pre-heated muffle furnace to obtain a product; and
d) grounding the product into powder form and calcined it to obtain a strontium cerium oxide (SrCeO3) nanoparticles.
2. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the strontium salt precursor is selected from a group comprising of Sr(NO3)2, (Sr(CH3COO)2) and combination thereof and wherein the cerium salt precursor is selected from a group comprising of Ce(NO3)3.6H2O, (Ce(CH3COO)3·xH2O and combination thereof.
3. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the solvent is selected from a group comprising of water, ethanol and combination thereof.
4. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pre-heated muffle furnace has a temperature ranging from 450 to 570 °C.
5. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the heating in step c) is carried out at a temperature ranging from 400 to 600 °C for a time period ranging from 5 min to 25 min.
6. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the calcination in step d) is carried out at a temperature ranging from 1000 to 1200 °C for a time period ranging from 1 h to 5 h.
7. A strontium cerium oxide (SrCeO3) nanoparticles is prepared by a strontium salt precursor, a cerium salt precursor and an aloe vera gel, wherein the nanoparticles has a particle size in the range of 10 to 50 nm.
8. The nanoparticles as claimed in claim 1, wherein the nanoparticle has a surface area ranging from 10 to 50 m2.g-1, mean pore radium ranging from 1 to 10 nm and total pore volume ranging from 0.01 to 0.1 cm3.g-1.
9. The nanoparticles as claimed in claim 1, wherein the nanoparticles has an X-ray powder diffraction pattern (CuKα) comprising peaks at 2-theta about 20.64°, 23.05°, 29.29°, 34.74°, 37.78°, 42.03°, 47.35°, 48.09°, 51.58°, 52.50°, 61.00°, 69.19°, 77.68°, and 84.82°.
10. A method of photodegradation of dye comprising:
dispersing 0.01 to 0.1 % w/v of the strontium cerium oxide (SrCeO3) nanoparticles as claimed in claim 1 on 10 ppm of dye solution under dark with continuously stirring at a speed ranging from 750 to 1000 rpm for a time period ranging from 5 min to 2 h followed by centrifuged for a time period ranging from 0 to 2 h for complete degradation of the dye.