Visible-Light-Induced Photocatalytic Degradation of Fast Green FCF and Orange II Dye by Yb2O3 Nanoparticles †

Abstract

The quest for efficient photocatalytic materials for eliminating synthetic dyes like Orange II Sodium Salt and Fast Green FCF (For Coloring Food) has been spurred by the mounting environmental problems associated with these dyes. Due to their excellent electrical characteristics, thermal stability, and potential to reduce electron–hole recombination, ytterbium oxide (Yb2O3) and other rare-earth metal oxides are gaining popularity. This study synthesized Yb2O3 nanoparticles and assessed their photocatalytic activity when exposed to visible light. Significant degradation efficiencies were revealed by the spectrophotometric analysis, suggesting that Yb2O3 is an effective nanocatalyst for dye remediation applications. The results demonstrate how rare-earth-based nanomaterials can improve environmentally friendly and sustainable wastewater treatment methods, supporting ongoing environmental cleanup initiatives.