Study of Microwave-Irradiated Fe2O3 with Activated Charcoal for Superior Electrochemical Performance

Abstract

This study presents the synthesis and modification of Fe₂O₃ nanoparticles using a simple co-precipitation method, followed by microwave irradiation and incorporation with activated charcoal to enhance their structural, optical, and electrochemical properties. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the rhombohedral phase of hematite (α-Fe₂O₃) and revealed enhanced lattice strain upon microwave irradiation improving active site density. UV-Vis spectroscopy showed a significant bandgap reduction from 2.5 eV (pure Fe₂O₃) to 1.6 eV (microwave-irradiated Fe₂O₃ with activated charcoal) indicating superior light absorption. Electrochemical characterization demonstrated improved redox activity and specific capacitance, with microwave-irradiated Fe₂O₃ with activated charcoal achieving the highest performance due to enhanced conductivity and porosity. These results highlight the synergistic effects of microwave irradiation and activated charcoal making the modified Fe₂O₃ a promising candidate for applications in catalysis, energy storage, and optoelectronics.