Structural Engineering of Photocatalytic ZnO-SnO₂-Fe₂O₃ Composites

Round 1

Reviewer 1 Report

1. On page 1, line 29, can the authors add the reference of ZnO used for this application? In addition, can the authors provide some examples of these modifying components?

 

2. On page 3, line 62, should it be “different from”?

 

3. On Page 3, line 129 to 132, why similar results of PVP/Zn(NO3)2 and PVP/Zn(NO3)2/SnCl2 can make the authors conclude FeCl3 does not have a significant effect?

 

4. On page 5, line 165, it should be figure 2 for the XRD.

 

5. On page 5, line 170, how can XRD tell the absence of texture? What does it mean?

 

6. Please check the caption of figure 3. How can 3a refers to both sample 1 and 3?

 

7. What are the meanings of the number 1-7 in figure 5a? please mention it in the caption.

 

Author Response

Dear Reviewers,

 

Thank you for the detail consideration of our article. According to your notes we changed the text and made some corrections. All changes are marked by green color.

 

Reviewer 1

 

1. On page 1, line 29, can the authors add the reference of ZnO used for this application? In addition, can the authors provide some examples of these modifying components?

 

We added some examples in the text and corresponding references (page 1).

 

2. On page 3, line 62, should it be “different from”?

 

We changed the sentence in the text (page 2).

 

3. On Page 3, line 129 to 132, why similar results of PVP/Zn(NO₃)₂ and PVP/Zn(NO3)2/SnCl2 can make the authors conclude FeCl3 does not have a significant effect?

 

We made the correction of the text (page 3).

 

4. On page 5, line 165, it should be figure 2 for the XRD.

 

You are right. We made the corresponding correction. It was our technical fault.

 

5. On page 5, line 170, how can XRD tell the absence of texture? What does it mean?

 

    The standard relative intensities of different peaks in XRD pattern given in PDF cards correspond to powder sample with random crystals orientation. At the formation of texture (preferential crystal orientation) the ratio between the intensities of different peaks is differ form the standard ratio given in PDF cards.

    In our experiments this ratio is close to the standard that suggests the random crystals orientation in prepared composites. 

 

6. Please check the caption of figure 3. How can 3a refers to both sample 1 and 3?

 

We made the correction of this caption.

 

7. What are the meanings of the number 1-7 in figure 5a? please mention it in the caption.

 

We added the information in the caption. It was our technical mistake.

 

Reviewer 2 This manuscript reported the efficient absorption and photodegradation of organic dye rhodamine over ZnO-SnO₂-Fe₂O₃ composite. This work is interesting and provides some useful information for readers. However, before considering it to be published, some suggestions are provided as follows:

1. The authors tested samples 1, 2 and 4 in XRD and samples 1, 3 and 4 in SEM. The object samples for characterization need to be unified.

    We added SEM image for the sample 2.

2. In Fig.4b, the authors concluded the generation of singlet oxygen (¹O₂) through the photoluminescence spectrum. It is suggested to supplement the free radical capture experiment (TEMP as the capture agent) to ensure the generation of ¹O₂in the reaction process. Some documents about EPR tests may be available for reference, e.g.,Chemical Engineering Journal 444 (2022) 136709.

    Thank you for this reference. This is very interesting work and we have added it as reference in our article (ref. [24]). Your proposal to study of free radical capture using TEMP is interesting also.  However, we think that this subject should be studied in detail in the additional work in future. 

2. In lines 305 to 312, the author mentioned the band gap of composite materials. It is suggested to supplement the UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) experiment.

    You are right that the application of UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) often is useful at the study of photocatalytic materials. However, these data are difficult for the interpretation for the composites containing many different semiconductor crystals with close band gap values. We think that the detailed study of the diffuse reflection spectra of such composites is the subject of additional work in future. Also, these experiments can overload the article with data. 

4. Please confirm the presence of heterostructure, and give the diagram of heterostructure among ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃. 

   You are right that the electronic structure and the diagram of heterostructure of photocatalytic materials are very important. However, according to XRD data (Fig.2), obtained materials contain, besides ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃, other crystals (ZnFe₂O₄; Zn₂SnO₄). The band gap of ZnFe₂O₄ crystals is ~ 1.9 eV (Li X., Jin B., Huang J., Zhang Q., Peng R., Chu S., Fe₂O₃/ZnO/ZnFe₂O₄ composites for the efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes under visible light. Solid State Science, 2018, V.80, P.6-14.) and this material demonstrates high photocatalytic properties. Therefore, we think that the correct heterostructure diagram should include also the electronic structures of ZnFe₂O₄ and Zn₂SnO₄ and it should be the subject of future additional study.

    We added some text and the corresponding reference in the “Discussion”section.

 

5. The description of the article template needs to be deleted. Such as lines 118 to 120.

The description of the article template was removed. It was our technical fault.

6. English writing needs to follow the rules of grammar. The English writing should be checked carefully.

We modified the English writing and made some corrections.

Thank you.

Best regards,

Evstropiev S.K.

Dear Reviewers,

 

Thank you for the detail consideration of our article. According to your notes we changed the text and made some corrections. All changes are marked by green color.

 

Reviewer 1

 

1. On page 1, line 29, can the authors add the reference of ZnO used for this application? In addition, can the authors provide some examples of these modifying components?

 

We added some examples in the text and corresponding references (page 1).

 

2. On page 3, line 62, should it be “different from”?

 

We changed the sentence in the text (page 2).

 

3. On Page 3, line 129 to 132, why similar results of PVP/Zn(NO₃)₂ and PVP/Zn(NO3)2/SnCl2 can make the authors conclude FeCl3 does not have a significant effect?

 

We made the correction of the text (page 3).

 

4. On page 5, line 165, it should be figure 2 for the XRD.

 

You are right. We made the corresponding correction. It was our technical fault.

 

5. On page 5, line 170, how can XRD tell the absence of texture? What does it mean?

 

    The standard relative intensities of different peaks in XRD pattern given in PDF cards correspond to powder sample with random crystals orientation. At the formation of texture (preferential crystal orientation) the ratio between the intensities of different peaks is differ form the standard ratio given in PDF cards.

    In our experiments this ratio is close to the standard that suggests the random crystals orientation in prepared composites. 

 

6. Please check the caption of figure 3. How can 3a refers to both sample 1 and 3?

 

We made the correction of this caption.

 

7. What are the meanings of the number 1-7 in figure 5a? please mention it in the caption.

 

We added the information in the caption. It was our technical mistake.

 

Reviewer 2 This manuscript reported the efficient absorption and photodegradation of organic dye rhodamine over ZnO-SnO₂-Fe₂O₃ composite. This work is interesting and provides some useful information for readers. However, before considering it to be published, some suggestions are provided as follows:

1. The authors tested samples 1, 2 and 4 in XRD and samples 1, 3 and 4 in SEM. The object samples for characterization need to be unified.

    We added SEM image for the sample 2.

2. In Fig.4b, the authors concluded the generation of singlet oxygen (¹O₂) through the photoluminescence spectrum. It is suggested to supplement the free radical capture experiment (TEMP as the capture agent) to ensure the generation of ¹O₂in the reaction process. Some documents about EPR tests may be available for reference, e.g.,Chemical Engineering Journal 444 (2022) 136709.

    Thank you for this reference. This is very interesting work and we have added it as reference in our article (ref. [24]). Your proposal to study of free radical capture using TEMP is interesting also.  However, we think that this subject should be studied in detail in the additional work in future. 

2. In lines 305 to 312, the author mentioned the band gap of composite materials. It is suggested to supplement the UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) experiment.

    You are right that the application of UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) often is useful at the study of photocatalytic materials. However, these data are difficult for the interpretation for the composites containing many different semiconductor crystals with close band gap values. We think that the detailed study of the diffuse reflection spectra of such composites is the subject of additional work in future. Also, these experiments can overload the article with data. 

4. Please confirm the presence of heterostructure, and give the diagram of heterostructure among ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃. 

   You are right that the electronic structure and the diagram of heterostructure of photocatalytic materials are very important. However, according to XRD data (Fig.2), obtained materials contain, besides ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃, other crystals (ZnFe₂O₄; Zn₂SnO₄). The band gap of ZnFe₂O₄ crystals is ~ 1.9 eV (Li X., Jin B., Huang J., Zhang Q., Peng R., Chu S., Fe₂O₃/ZnO/ZnFe₂O₄ composites for the efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes under visible light. Solid State Science, 2018, V.80, P.6-14.) and this material demonstrates high photocatalytic properties. Therefore, we think that the correct heterostructure diagram should include also the electronic structures of ZnFe₂O₄ and Zn₂SnO₄ and it should be the subject of future additional study.

    We added some text and the corresponding reference in the “Discussion”section.

 

5. The description of the article template needs to be deleted. Such as lines 118 to 120.

The description of the article template was removed. It was our technical fault.

6. English writing needs to follow the rules of grammar. The English writing should be checked carefully.

We modified the English writing and made some corrections.

Thank you.

Best regards,

Evstropiev S.K.

Dear Reviewers,

 

Thank you for the detail consideration of our article. According to your notes we changed the text and made some corrections. All changes are marked by green color.

 

Reviewer 1

 

1. On page 1, line 29, can the authors add the reference of ZnO used for this application? In addition, can the authors provide some examples of these modifying components?

 

We added some examples in the text and corresponding references (page 1).

 

2. On page 3, line 62, should it be “different from”?

 

We changed the sentence in the text (page 2).

 

3. On Page 3, line 129 to 132, why similar results of PVP/Zn(NO₃)₂ and PVP/Zn(NO3)2/SnCl2 can make the authors conclude FeCl3 does not have a significant effect?

 

We made the correction of the text (page 3).

 

4. On page 5, line 165, it should be figure 2 for the XRD.

 

You are right. We made the corresponding correction. It was our technical fault.

 

5. On page 5, line 170, how can XRD tell the absence of texture? What does it mean?

 

    The standard relative intensities of different peaks in XRD pattern given in PDF cards correspond to powder sample with random crystals orientation. At the formation of texture (preferential crystal orientation) the ratio between the intensities of different peaks is differ form the standard ratio given in PDF cards.

    In our experiments this ratio is close to the standard that suggests the random crystals orientation in prepared composites. 

 

6. Please check the caption of figure 3. How can 3a refers to both sample 1 and 3?

 

We made the correction of this caption.

 

7. What are the meanings of the number 1-7 in figure 5a? please mention it in the caption.

 

We added the information in the caption. It was our technical mistake.

 

Reviewer 2 This manuscript reported the efficient absorption and photodegradation of organic dye rhodamine over ZnO-SnO₂-Fe₂O₃ composite. This work is interesting and provides some useful information for readers. However, before considering it to be published, some suggestions are provided as follows:

1. The authors tested samples 1, 2 and 4 in XRD and samples 1, 3 and 4 in SEM. The object samples for characterization need to be unified.

    We added SEM image for the sample 2.

2. In Fig.4b, the authors concluded the generation of singlet oxygen (¹O₂) through the photoluminescence spectrum. It is suggested to supplement the free radical capture experiment (TEMP as the capture agent) to ensure the generation of ¹O₂in the reaction process. Some documents about EPR tests may be available for reference, e.g.,Chemical Engineering Journal 444 (2022) 136709.

    Thank you for this reference. This is very interesting work and we have added it as reference in our article (ref. [24]). Your proposal to study of free radical capture using TEMP is interesting also.  However, we think that this subject should be studied in detail in the additional work in future. 

2. In lines 305 to 312, the author mentioned the band gap of composite materials. It is suggested to supplement the UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) experiment.

    You are right that the application of UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) often is useful at the study of photocatalytic materials. However, these data are difficult for the interpretation for the composites containing many different semiconductor crystals with close band gap values. We think that the detailed study of the diffuse reflection spectra of such composites is the subject of additional work in future. Also, these experiments can overload the article with data. 

4. Please confirm the presence of heterostructure, and give the diagram of heterostructure among ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃. 

   You are right that the electronic structure and the diagram of heterostructure of photocatalytic materials are very important. However, according to XRD data (Fig.2), obtained materials contain, besides ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃, other crystals (ZnFe₂O₄; Zn₂SnO₄). The band gap of ZnFe₂O₄ crystals is ~ 1.9 eV (Li X., Jin B., Huang J., Zhang Q., Peng R., Chu S., Fe₂O₃/ZnO/ZnFe₂O₄ composites for the efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes under visible light. Solid State Science, 2018, V.80, P.6-14.) and this material demonstrates high photocatalytic properties. Therefore, we think that the correct heterostructure diagram should include also the electronic structures of ZnFe₂O₄ and Zn₂SnO₄ and it should be the subject of future additional study.

    We added some text and the corresponding reference in the “Discussion”section.

 

5. The description of the article template needs to be deleted. Such as lines 118 to 120.

The description of the article template was removed. It was our technical fault.

6. English writing needs to follow the rules of grammar. The English writing should be checked carefully.

We modified the English writing and made some corrections.

Thank you.

Best regards,

Evstropiev S.K.

Dear Reviewers,

 

Thank you for the detail consideration of our article. According to your notes we changed the text and made some corrections. All changes are marked by green color.

 

Reviewer 1

 

1. On page 1, line 29, can the authors add the reference of ZnO used for this application? In addition, can the authors provide some examples of these modifying components?

 

We added some examples in the text and corresponding references (page 1).

 

2. On page 3, line 62, should it be “different from”?

 

We changed the sentence in the text (page 2).

 

3. On Page 3, line 129 to 132, why similar results of PVP/Zn(NO₃)₂ and PVP/Zn(NO3)2/SnCl2 can make the authors conclude FeCl3 does not have a significant effect?

 

We made the correction of the text (page 3).

 

4. On page 5, line 165, it should be figure 2 for the XRD.

 

You are right. We made the corresponding correction. It was our technical fault.

 

5. On page 5, line 170, how can XRD tell the absence of texture? What does it mean?

 

    The standard relative intensities of different peaks in XRD pattern given in PDF cards correspond to powder sample with random crystals orientation. At the formation of texture (preferential crystal orientation) the ratio between the intensities of different peaks is differ form the standard ratio given in PDF cards.

    In our experiments this ratio is close to the standard that suggests the random crystals orientation in prepared composites. 

 

6. Please check the caption of figure 3. How can 3a refers to both sample 1 and 3?

 

We made the correction of this caption.

 

7. What are the meanings of the number 1-7 in figure 5a? please mention it in the caption.

 

We added the information in the caption. It was our technical mistake.

 

Reviewer 2 This manuscript reported the efficient absorption and photodegradation of organic dye rhodamine over ZnO-SnO₂-Fe₂O₃ composite. This work is interesting and provides some useful information for readers. However, before considering it to be published, some suggestions are provided as follows:

1. The authors tested samples 1, 2 and 4 in XRD and samples 1, 3 and 4 in SEM. The object samples for characterization need to be unified.

    We added SEM image for the sample 2.

2. In Fig.4b, the authors concluded the generation of singlet oxygen (¹O₂) through the photoluminescence spectrum. It is suggested to supplement the free radical capture experiment (TEMP as the capture agent) to ensure the generation of ¹O₂in the reaction process. Some documents about EPR tests may be available for reference, e.g.,Chemical Engineering Journal 444 (2022) 136709.

    Thank you for this reference. This is very interesting work and we have added it as reference in our article (ref. [24]). Your proposal to study of free radical capture using TEMP is interesting also.  However, we think that this subject should be studied in detail in the additional work in future. 

2. In lines 305 to 312, the author mentioned the band gap of composite materials. It is suggested to supplement the UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) experiment.

    You are right that the application of UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) often is useful at the study of photocatalytic materials. However, these data are difficult for the interpretation for the composites containing many different semiconductor crystals with close band gap values. We think that the detailed study of the diffuse reflection spectra of such composites is the subject of additional work in future. Also, these experiments can overload the article with data. 

4. Please confirm the presence of heterostructure, and give the diagram of heterostructure among ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃. 

   You are right that the electronic structure and the diagram of heterostructure of photocatalytic materials are very important. However, according to XRD data (Fig.2), obtained materials contain, besides ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃, other crystals (ZnFe₂O₄; Zn₂SnO₄). The band gap of ZnFe₂O₄ crystals is ~ 1.9 eV (Li X., Jin B., Huang J., Zhang Q., Peng R., Chu S., Fe₂O₃/ZnO/ZnFe₂O₄ composites for the efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes under visible light. Solid State Science, 2018, V.80, P.6-14.) and this material demonstrates high photocatalytic properties. Therefore, we think that the correct heterostructure diagram should include also the electronic structures of ZnFe₂O₄ and Zn₂SnO₄ and it should be the subject of future additional study.

    We added some text and the corresponding reference in the “Discussion”section.

 

5. The description of the article template needs to be deleted. Such as lines 118 to 120.

The description of the article template was removed. It was our technical fault.

6. English writing needs to follow the rules of grammar. The English writing should be checked carefully.

We modified the English writing and made some corrections.

Thank you.

Best regards,

Evstropiev S.K.

Dear Reviewers,

 

Thank you for the detail consideration of our article. According to your notes we changed the text and made some corrections. All changes are marked by green color.

 

Reviewer 1

 

1. On page 1, line 29, can the authors add the reference of ZnO used for this application? In addition, can the authors provide some examples of these modifying components?

 

We added some examples in the text and corresponding references (page 1).

 

2. On page 3, line 62, should it be “different from”?

 

We changed the sentence in the text (page 2).

 

3. On Page 3, line 129 to 132, why similar results of PVP/Zn(NO₃)₂ and PVP/Zn(NO3)2/SnCl2 can make the authors conclude FeCl3 does not have a significant effect?

 

We made the correction of the text (page 3).

 

4. On page 5, line 165, it should be figure 2 for the XRD.

 

You are right. We made the corresponding correction. It was our technical fault.

 

5. On page 5, line 170, how can XRD tell the absence of texture? What does it mean?

 

    The standard relative intensities of different peaks in XRD pattern given in PDF cards correspond to powder sample with random crystals orientation. At the formation of texture (preferential crystal orientation) the ratio between the intensities of different peaks is differ form the standard ratio given in PDF cards.

    In our experiments this ratio is close to the standard that suggests the random crystals orientation in prepared composites. 

 

6. Please check the caption of figure 3. How can 3a refers to both sample 1 and 3?

 

We made the correction of this caption.

 

7. What are the meanings of the number 1-7 in figure 5a? please mention it in the caption.

 

We added the information in the caption. It was our technical mistake.

 

Reviewer 2 This manuscript reported the efficient absorption and photodegradation of organic dye rhodamine over ZnO-SnO₂-Fe₂O₃ composite. This work is interesting and provides some useful information for readers. However, before considering it to be published, some suggestions are provided as follows:

1. The authors tested samples 1, 2 and 4 in XRD and samples 1, 3 and 4 in SEM. The object samples for characterization need to be unified.

    We added SEM image for the sample 2.

2. In Fig.4b, the authors concluded the generation of singlet oxygen (¹O₂) through the photoluminescence spectrum. It is suggested to supplement the free radical capture experiment (TEMP as the capture agent) to ensure the generation of ¹O₂in the reaction process. Some documents about EPR tests may be available for reference, e.g.,Chemical Engineering Journal 444 (2022) 136709.

    Thank you for this reference. This is very interesting work and we have added it as reference in our article (ref. [24]). Your proposal to study of free radical capture using TEMP is interesting also.  However, we think that this subject should be studied in detail in the additional work in future. 

2. In lines 305 to 312, the author mentioned the band gap of composite materials. It is suggested to supplement the UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) experiment.

    You are right that the application of UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) often is useful at the study of photocatalytic materials. However, these data are difficult for the interpretation for the composites containing many different semiconductor crystals with close band gap values. We think that the detailed study of the diffuse reflection spectra of such composites is the subject of additional work in future. Also, these experiments can overload the article with data. 

4. Please confirm the presence of heterostructure, and give the diagram of heterostructure among ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃. 

   You are right that the electronic structure and the diagram of heterostructure of photocatalytic materials are very important. However, according to XRD data (Fig.2), obtained materials contain, besides ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃, other crystals (ZnFe₂O₄; Zn₂SnO₄). The band gap of ZnFe₂O₄ crystals is ~ 1.9 eV (Li X., Jin B., Huang J., Zhang Q., Peng R., Chu S., Fe₂O₃/ZnO/ZnFe₂O₄ composites for the efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes under visible light. Solid State Science, 2018, V.80, P.6-14.) and this material demonstrates high photocatalytic properties. Therefore, we think that the correct heterostructure diagram should include also the electronic structures of ZnFe₂O₄ and Zn₂SnO₄ and it should be the subject of future additional study.

    We added some text and the corresponding reference in the “Discussion”section.

 

5. The description of the article template needs to be deleted. Such as lines 118 to 120.

The description of the article template was removed. It was our technical fault.

6. English writing needs to follow the rules of grammar. The English writing should be checked carefully.

We modified the English writing and made some corrections.

Thank you.

Best regards,

Evstropiev S.K.

Dear Reviewers,

 

Thank you for the detail consideration of our article. According to your notes we changed the text and made some corrections. All changes are marked by green color.

 

Reviewer 1

 

1. On page 1, line 29, can the authors add the reference of ZnO used for this application? In addition, can the authors provide some examples of these modifying components?

 

We added some examples in the text and corresponding references (page 1).

 

2. On page 3, line 62, should it be “different from”?

 

We changed the sentence in the text (page 2).

 

3. On Page 3, line 129 to 132, why similar results of PVP/Zn(NO₃)₂ and PVP/Zn(NO3)2/SnCl2 can make the authors conclude FeCl3 does not have a significant effect?

 

We made the correction of the text (page 3).

 

4. On page 5, line 165, it should be figure 2 for the XRD.

 

You are right. We made the corresponding correction. It was our technical fault.

 

5. On page 5, line 170, how can XRD tell the absence of texture? What does it mean?

 

    The standard relative intensities of different peaks in XRD pattern given in PDF cards correspond to powder sample with random crystals orientation. At the formation of texture (preferential crystal orientation) the ratio between the intensities of different peaks is differ form the standard ratio given in PDF cards.

    In our experiments this ratio is close to the standard that suggests the random crystals orientation in prepared composites. 

 

6. Please check the caption of figure 3. How can 3a refers to both sample 1 and 3?

 

We made the correction of this caption.

 

7. What are the meanings of the number 1-7 in figure 5a? please mention it in the caption.

 

We added the information in the caption. It was our technical mistake.

 

Reviewer 2 This manuscript reported the efficient absorption and photodegradation of organic dye rhodamine over ZnO-SnO₂-Fe₂O₃ composite. This work is interesting and provides some useful information for readers. However, before considering it to be published, some suggestions are provided as follows:

1. The authors tested samples 1, 2 and 4 in XRD and samples 1, 3 and 4 in SEM. The object samples for characterization need to be unified.

    We added SEM image for the sample 2.

2. In Fig.4b, the authors concluded the generation of singlet oxygen (¹O₂) through the photoluminescence spectrum. It is suggested to supplement the free radical capture experiment (TEMP as the capture agent) to ensure the generation of ¹O₂in the reaction process. Some documents about EPR tests may be available for reference, e.g.,Chemical Engineering Journal 444 (2022) 136709.

    Thank you for this reference. This is very interesting work and we have added it as reference in our article (ref. [24]). Your proposal to study of free radical capture using TEMP is interesting also.  However, we think that this subject should be studied in detail in the additional work in future. 

2. In lines 305 to 312, the author mentioned the band gap of composite materials. It is suggested to supplement the UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) experiment.

    You are right that the application of UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) often is useful at the study of photocatalytic materials. However, these data are difficult for the interpretation for the composites containing many different semiconductor crystals with close band gap values. We think that the detailed study of the diffuse reflection spectra of such composites is the subject of additional work in future. Also, these experiments can overload the article with data. 

4. Please confirm the presence of heterostructure, and give the diagram of heterostructure among ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃. 

   You are right that the electronic structure and the diagram of heterostructure of photocatalytic materials are very important. However, according to XRD data (Fig.2), obtained materials contain, besides ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃, other crystals (ZnFe₂O₄; Zn₂SnO₄). The band gap of ZnFe₂O₄ crystals is ~ 1.9 eV (Li X., Jin B., Huang J., Zhang Q., Peng R., Chu S., Fe₂O₃/ZnO/ZnFe₂O₄ composites for the efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes under visible light. Solid State Science, 2018, V.80, P.6-14.) and this material demonstrates high photocatalytic properties. Therefore, we think that the correct heterostructure diagram should include also the electronic structures of ZnFe₂O₄ and Zn₂SnO₄ and it should be the subject of future additional study.

    We added some text and the corresponding reference in the “Discussion”section.

 

5. The description of the article template needs to be deleted. Such as lines 118 to 120.

The description of the article template was removed. It was our technical fault.

6. English writing needs to follow the rules of grammar. The English writing should be checked carefully.

We modified the English writing and made some corrections.

Thank you.

Best regards,

Evstropiev S.K.

Dear Reviewers,

 

Thank you for the detail consideration of our article. According to your notes we changed the text and made some corrections. All changes are marked by green color.

 

Reviewer 1

 

1. On page 1, line 29, can the authors add the reference of ZnO used for this application? In addition, can the authors provide some examples of these modifying components?

 

We added some examples in the text and corresponding references (page 1).

 

2. On page 3, line 62, should it be “different from”?

 

We changed the sentence in the text (page 2).

 

3. On Page 3, line 129 to 132, why similar results of PVP/Zn(NO₃)₂ and PVP/Zn(NO3)2/SnCl2 can make the authors conclude FeCl3 does not have a significant effect?

 

We made the correction of the text (page 3).

 

4. On page 5, line 165, it should be figure 2 for the XRD.

 

You are right. We made the corresponding correction. It was our technical fault.

 

5. On page 5, line 170, how can XRD tell the absence of texture? What does it mean?

 

    The standard relative intensities of different peaks in XRD pattern given in PDF cards correspond to powder sample with random crystals orientation. At the formation of texture (preferential crystal orientation) the ratio between the intensities of different peaks is differ form the standard ratio given in PDF cards.

    In our experiments this ratio is close to the standard that suggests the random crystals orientation in prepared composites. 

 

6. Please check the caption of figure 3. How can 3a refers to both sample 1 and 3?

 

We made the correction of this caption.

 

7. What are the meanings of the number 1-7 in figure 5a? please mention it in the caption.

 

We added the information in the caption. It was our technical mistake.

 

Reviewer 2 This manuscript reported the efficient absorption and photodegradation of organic dye rhodamine over ZnO-SnO₂-Fe₂O₃ composite. This work is interesting and provides some useful information for readers. However, before considering it to be published, some suggestions are provided as follows:

1. The authors tested samples 1, 2 and 4 in XRD and samples 1, 3 and 4 in SEM. The object samples for characterization need to be unified.

    We added SEM image for the sample 2.

2. In Fig.4b, the authors concluded the generation of singlet oxygen (¹O₂) through the photoluminescence spectrum. It is suggested to supplement the free radical capture experiment (TEMP as the capture agent) to ensure the generation of ¹O₂in the reaction process. Some documents about EPR tests may be available for reference, e.g.,Chemical Engineering Journal 444 (2022) 136709.

    Thank you for this reference. This is very interesting work and we have added it as reference in our article (ref. [24]). Your proposal to study of free radical capture using TEMP is interesting also.  However, we think that this subject should be studied in detail in the additional work in future. 

2. In lines 305 to 312, the author mentioned the band gap of composite materials. It is suggested to supplement the UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) experiment.

    You are right that the application of UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) often is useful at the study of photocatalytic materials. However, these data are difficult for the interpretation for the composites containing many different semiconductor crystals with close band gap values. We think that the detailed study of the diffuse reflection spectra of such composites is the subject of additional work in future. Also, these experiments can overload the article with data. 

4. Please confirm the presence of heterostructure, and give the diagram of heterostructure among ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃. 

   You are right that the electronic structure and the diagram of heterostructure of photocatalytic materials are very important. However, according to XRD data (Fig.2), obtained materials contain, besides ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃, other crystals (ZnFe₂O₄; Zn₂SnO₄). The band gap of ZnFe₂O₄ crystals is ~ 1.9 eV (Li X., Jin B., Huang J., Zhang Q., Peng R., Chu S., Fe₂O₃/ZnO/ZnFe₂O₄ composites for the efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes under visible light. Solid State Science, 2018, V.80, P.6-14.) and this material demonstrates high photocatalytic properties. Therefore, we think that the correct heterostructure diagram should include also the electronic structures of ZnFe₂O₄ and Zn₂SnO₄ and it should be the subject of future additional study.

    We added some text and the corresponding reference in the “Discussion”section.

 

5. The description of the article template needs to be deleted. Such as lines 118 to 120.

The description of the article template was removed. It was our technical fault.

6. English writing needs to follow the rules of grammar. The English writing should be checked carefully.

We modified the English writing and made some corrections.

Thank you.

Best regards,

Evstropiev S.K.

Dear Reviewers,

 

Thank you for the detail consideration of our article. According to your notes we changed the text and made some corrections. All changes are marked by green color.

 

Reviewer 1

 

1. On page 1, line 29, can the authors add the reference of ZnO used for this application? In addition, can the authors provide some examples of these modifying components?

 

We added some examples in the text and corresponding references (page 1).

 

2. On page 3, line 62, should it be “different from”?

 

We changed the sentence in the text (page 2).

 

3. On Page 3, line 129 to 132, why similar results of PVP/Zn(NO₃)₂ and PVP/Zn(NO3)2/SnCl2 can make the authors conclude FeCl3 does not have a significant effect?

 

We made the correction of the text (page 3).

 

4. On page 5, line 165, it should be figure 2 for the XRD.

 

You are right. We made the corresponding correction. It was our technical fault.

 

5. On page 5, line 170, how can XRD tell the absence of texture? What does it mean?

 

    The standard relative intensities of different peaks in XRD pattern given in PDF cards correspond to powder sample with random crystals orientation. At the formation of texture (preferential crystal orientation) the ratio between the intensities of different peaks is differ form the standard ratio given in PDF cards.

    In our experiments this ratio is close to the standard that suggests the random crystals orientation in prepared composites. 

 

6. Please check the caption of figure 3. How can 3a refers to both sample 1 and 3?

 

We made the correction of this caption.

 

7. What are the meanings of the number 1-7 in figure 5a? please mention it in the caption.

 

We added the information in the caption. It was our technical mistake.

 

Reviewer 2 This manuscript reported the efficient absorption and photodegradation of organic dye rhodamine over ZnO-SnO₂-Fe₂O₃ composite. This work is interesting and provides some useful information for readers. However, before considering it to be published, some suggestions are provided as follows:

1. The authors tested samples 1, 2 and 4 in XRD and samples 1, 3 and 4 in SEM. The object samples for characterization need to be unified.

    We added SEM image for the sample 2.

2. In Fig.4b, the authors concluded the generation of singlet oxygen (¹O₂) through the photoluminescence spectrum. It is suggested to supplement the free radical capture experiment (TEMP as the capture agent) to ensure the generation of ¹O₂in the reaction process. Some documents about EPR tests may be available for reference, e.g.,Chemical Engineering Journal 444 (2022) 136709.

    Thank you for this reference. This is very interesting work and we have added it as reference in our article (ref. [24]). Your proposal to study of free radical capture using TEMP is interesting also.  However, we think that this subject should be studied in detail in the additional work in future. 

2. In lines 305 to 312, the author mentioned the band gap of composite materials. It is suggested to supplement the UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) experiment.

    You are right that the application of UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) often is useful at the study of photocatalytic materials. However, these data are difficult for the interpretation for the composites containing many different semiconductor crystals with close band gap values. We think that the detailed study of the diffuse reflection spectra of such composites is the subject of additional work in future. Also, these experiments can overload the article with data. 

4. Please confirm the presence of heterostructure, and give the diagram of heterostructure among ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃. 

   You are right that the electronic structure and the diagram of heterostructure of photocatalytic materials are very important. However, according to XRD data (Fig.2), obtained materials contain, besides ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃, other crystals (ZnFe₂O₄; Zn₂SnO₄). The band gap of ZnFe₂O₄ crystals is ~ 1.9 eV (Li X., Jin B., Huang J., Zhang Q., Peng R., Chu S., Fe₂O₃/ZnO/ZnFe₂O₄ composites for the efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes under visible light. Solid State Science, 2018, V.80, P.6-14.) and this material demonstrates high photocatalytic properties. Therefore, we think that the correct heterostructure diagram should include also the electronic structures of ZnFe₂O₄ and Zn₂SnO₄ and it should be the subject of future additional study.

    We added some text and the corresponding reference in the “Discussion”section.

 

5. The description of the article template needs to be deleted. Such as lines 118 to 120.

The description of the article template was removed. It was our technical fault.

6. English writing needs to follow the rules of grammar. The English writing should be checked carefully.

We modified the English writing and made some corrections.

Thank you.

Best regards,

Evstropiev S.K.

Dear Reviewers,

 

Thank you for the detail consideration of our article. According to your notes we changed the text and made some corrections. All changes are marked by green color.

 

Reviewer 1

 

1. On page 1, line 29, can the authors add the reference of ZnO used for this application? In addition, can the authors provide some examples of these modifying components?

 

We added some examples in the text and corresponding references (page 1).

 

2. On page 3, line 62, should it be “different from”?

 

We changed the sentence in the text (page 2).

 

3. On Page 3, line 129 to 132, why similar results of PVP/Zn(NO₃)₂ and PVP/Zn(NO3)2/SnCl2 can make the authors conclude FeCl3 does not have a significant effect?

 

We made the correction of the text (page 3).

 

4. On page 5, line 165, it should be figure 2 for the XRD.

 

You are right. We made the corresponding correction. It was our technical fault.

 

5. On page 5, line 170, how can XRD tell the absence of texture? What does it mean?

 

    The standard relative intensities of different peaks in XRD pattern given in PDF cards correspond to powder sample with random crystals orientation. At the formation of texture (preferential crystal orientation) the ratio between the intensities of different peaks is differ form the standard ratio given in PDF cards.

    In our experiments this ratio is close to the standard that suggests the random crystals orientation in prepared composites. 

 

6. Please check the caption of figure 3. How can 3a refers to both sample 1 and 3?

 

We made the correction of this caption.

 

7. What are the meanings of the number 1-7 in figure 5a? please mention it in the caption.

 

We added the information in the caption. It was our technical mistake.

 

Reviewer 2 This manuscript reported the efficient absorption and photodegradation of organic dye rhodamine over ZnO-SnO₂-Fe₂O₃ composite. This work is interesting and provides some useful information for readers. However, before considering it to be published, some suggestions are provided as follows:

1. The authors tested samples 1, 2 and 4 in XRD and samples 1, 3 and 4 in SEM. The object samples for characterization need to be unified.

    We added SEM image for the sample 2.

2. In Fig.4b, the authors concluded the generation of singlet oxygen (¹O₂) through the photoluminescence spectrum. It is suggested to supplement the free radical capture experiment (TEMP as the capture agent) to ensure the generation of ¹O₂in the reaction process. Some documents about EPR tests may be available for reference, e.g.,Chemical Engineering Journal 444 (2022) 136709.

    Thank you for this reference. This is very interesting work and we have added it as reference in our article (ref. [24]). Your proposal to study of free radical capture using TEMP is interesting also.  However, we think that this subject should be studied in detail in the additional work in future. 

2. In lines 305 to 312, the author mentioned the band gap of composite materials. It is suggested to supplement the UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) experiment.

    You are right that the application of UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) often is useful at the study of photocatalytic materials. However, these data are difficult for the interpretation for the composites containing many different semiconductor crystals with close band gap values. We think that the detailed study of the diffuse reflection spectra of such composites is the subject of additional work in future. Also, these experiments can overload the article with data. 

4. Please confirm the presence of heterostructure, and give the diagram of heterostructure among ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃. 

   You are right that the electronic structure and the diagram of heterostructure of photocatalytic materials are very important. However, according to XRD data (Fig.2), obtained materials contain, besides ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃, other crystals (ZnFe₂O₄; Zn₂SnO₄). The band gap of ZnFe₂O₄ crystals is ~ 1.9 eV (Li X., Jin B., Huang J., Zhang Q., Peng R., Chu S., Fe₂O₃/ZnO/ZnFe₂O₄ composites for the efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes under visible light. Solid State Science, 2018, V.80, P.6-14.) and this material demonstrates high photocatalytic properties. Therefore, we think that the correct heterostructure diagram should include also the electronic structures of ZnFe₂O₄ and Zn₂SnO₄ and it should be the subject of future additional study.

    We added some text and the corresponding reference in the “Discussion”section.

 

5. The description of the article template needs to be deleted. Such as lines 118 to 120.

The description of the article template was removed. It was our technical fault.

6. English writing needs to follow the rules of grammar. The English writing should be checked carefully.

We modified the English writing and made some corrections.

Thank you.

Best regards,

Evstropiev S.K.

Dear Reviewers,

 

Thank you for the detail consideration of our article. According to your notes we changed the text and made some corrections. All changes are marked by green color.

 

Reviewer 1

 

1. On page 1, line 29, can the authors add the reference of ZnO used for this application? In addition, can the authors provide some examples of these modifying components?

 

We added some examples in the text and corresponding references (page 1).

 

2. On page 3, line 62, should it be “different from”?

 

We changed the sentence in the text (page 2).

 

3. On Page 3, line 129 to 132, why similar results of PVP/Zn(NO₃)₂ and PVP/Zn(NO3)2/SnCl2 can make the authors conclude FeCl3 does not have a significant effect?

 

We made the correction of the text (page 3).

 

4. On page 5, line 165, it should be figure 2 for the XRD.

 

You are right. We made the corresponding correction. It was our technical fault.

 

5. On page 5, line 170, how can XRD tell the absence of texture? What does it mean?

 

    The standard relative intensities of different peaks in XRD pattern given in PDF cards correspond to powder sample with random crystals orientation. At the formation of texture (preferential crystal orientation) the ratio between the intensities of different peaks is differ form the standard ratio given in PDF cards.

    In our experiments this ratio is close to the standard that suggests the random crystals orientation in prepared composites. 

 

6. Please check the caption of figure 3. How can 3a refers to both sample 1 and 3?

 

We made the correction of this caption.

 

7. What are the meanings of the number 1-7 in figure 5a? please mention it in the caption.

 

We added the information in the caption. It was our technical mistake.

 

Reviewer 2 This manuscript reported the efficient absorption and photodegradation of organic dye rhodamine over ZnO-SnO₂-Fe₂O₃ composite. This work is interesting and provides some useful information for readers. However, before considering it to be published, some suggestions are provided as follows:

1. The authors tested samples 1, 2 and 4 in XRD and samples 1, 3 and 4 in SEM. The object samples for characterization need to be unified.

    We added SEM image for the sample 2.

2. In Fig.4b, the authors concluded the generation of singlet oxygen (¹O₂) through the photoluminescence spectrum. It is suggested to supplement the free radical capture experiment (TEMP as the capture agent) to ensure the generation of ¹O₂in the reaction process. Some documents about EPR tests may be available for reference, e.g.,Chemical Engineering Journal 444 (2022) 136709.

    Thank you for this reference. This is very interesting work and we have added it as reference in our article (ref. [24]). Your proposal to study of free radical capture using TEMP is interesting also.  However, we think that this subject should be studied in detail in the additional work in future. 

2. In lines 305 to 312, the author mentioned the band gap of composite materials. It is suggested to supplement the UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) experiment.

    You are right that the application of UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) often is useful at the study of photocatalytic materials. However, these data are difficult for the interpretation for the composites containing many different semiconductor crystals with close band gap values. We think that the detailed study of the diffuse reflection spectra of such composites is the subject of additional work in future. Also, these experiments can overload the article with data. 

4. Please confirm the presence of heterostructure, and give the diagram of heterostructure among ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃. 

   You are right that the electronic structure and the diagram of heterostructure of photocatalytic materials are very important. However, according to XRD data (Fig.2), obtained materials contain, besides ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃, other crystals (ZnFe₂O₄; Zn₂SnO₄). The band gap of ZnFe₂O₄ crystals is ~ 1.9 eV (Li X., Jin B., Huang J., Zhang Q., Peng R., Chu S., Fe₂O₃/ZnO/ZnFe₂O₄ composites for the efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes under visible light. Solid State Science, 2018, V.80, P.6-14.) and this material demonstrates high photocatalytic properties. Therefore, we think that the correct heterostructure diagram should include also the electronic structures of ZnFe₂O₄ and Zn₂SnO₄ and it should be the subject of future additional study.

    We added some text and the corresponding reference in the “Discussion”section.

 

5. The description of the article template needs to be deleted. Such as lines 118 to 120.

The description of the article template was removed. It was our technical fault.

6. English writing needs to follow the rules of grammar. The English writing should be checked carefully.

We modified the English writing and made some corrections.

Thank you.

Best regards,

Evstropiev S.K.

Dear Reviewers,

 

Thank you for the detail consideration of our article. According to your notes we changed the text and made some corrections. All changes are marked by green color.

 

Reviewer 1

 

1. On page 1, line 29, can the authors add the reference of ZnO used for this application? In addition, can the authors provide some examples of these modifying components?

 

We added some examples in the text and corresponding references (page 1).

 

2. On page 3, line 62, should it be “different from”?

 

We changed the sentence in the text (page 2).

 

3. On Page 3, line 129 to 132, why similar results of PVP/Zn(NO₃)₂ and PVP/Zn(NO3)2/SnCl2 can make the authors conclude FeCl3 does not have a significant effect?

 

We made the correction of the text (page 3).

 

4. On page 5, line 165, it should be figure 2 for the XRD.

 

You are right. We made the corresponding correction. It was our technical fault.

 

5. On page 5, line 170, how can XRD tell the absence of texture? What does it mean?

 

    The standard relative intensities of different peaks in XRD pattern given in PDF cards correspond to powder sample with random crystals orientation. At the formation of texture (preferential crystal orientation) the ratio between the intensities of different peaks is differ form the standard ratio given in PDF cards.

    In our experiments this ratio is close to the standard that suggests the random crystals orientation in prepared composites. 

 

6. Please check the caption of figure 3. How can 3a refers to both sample 1 and 3?

 

We made the correction of this caption.

 

7. What are the meanings of the number 1-7 in figure 5a? please mention it in the caption.

 

We added the information in the caption. It was our technical mistake.

 

Reviewer 2 This manuscript reported the efficient absorption and photodegradation of organic dye rhodamine over ZnO-SnO₂-Fe₂O₃ composite. This work is interesting and provides some useful information for readers. However, before considering it to be published, some suggestions are provided as follows:

1. The authors tested samples 1, 2 and 4 in XRD and samples 1, 3 and 4 in SEM. The object samples for characterization need to be unified.

    We added SEM image for the sample 2.

2. In Fig.4b, the authors concluded the generation of singlet oxygen (¹O₂) through the photoluminescence spectrum. It is suggested to supplement the free radical capture experiment (TEMP as the capture agent) to ensure the generation of ¹O₂in the reaction process. Some documents about EPR tests may be available for reference, e.g.,Chemical Engineering Journal 444 (2022) 136709.

    Thank you for this reference. This is very interesting work and we have added it as reference in our article (ref. [24]). Your proposal to study of free radical capture using TEMP is interesting also.  However, we think that this subject should be studied in detail in the additional work in future. 

2. In lines 305 to 312, the author mentioned the band gap of composite materials. It is suggested to supplement the UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) experiment.

    You are right that the application of UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) often is useful at the study of photocatalytic materials. However, these data are difficult for the interpretation for the composites containing many different semiconductor crystals with close band gap values. We think that the detailed study of the diffuse reflection spectra of such composites is the subject of additional work in future. Also, these experiments can overload the article with data. 

4. Please confirm the presence of heterostructure, and give the diagram of heterostructure among ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃. 

   You are right that the electronic structure and the diagram of heterostructure of photocatalytic materials are very important. However, according to XRD data (Fig.2), obtained materials contain, besides ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃, other crystals (ZnFe₂O₄; Zn₂SnO₄). The band gap of ZnFe₂O₄ crystals is ~ 1.9 eV (Li X., Jin B., Huang J., Zhang Q., Peng R., Chu S., Fe₂O₃/ZnO/ZnFe₂O₄ composites for the efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes under visible light. Solid State Science, 2018, V.80, P.6-14.) and this material demonstrates high photocatalytic properties. Therefore, we think that the correct heterostructure diagram should include also the electronic structures of ZnFe₂O₄ and Zn₂SnO₄ and it should be the subject of future additional study.

    We added some text and the corresponding reference in the “Discussion”section.

 

5. The description of the article template needs to be deleted. Such as lines 118 to 120.

The description of the article template was removed. It was our technical fault.

6. English writing needs to follow the rules of grammar. The English writing should be checked carefully.

We modified the English writing and made some corrections.

Thank you.

Best regards,

Evstropiev S.K.

Dear Reviewers,

 

Thank you for the detail consideration of our article. According to your notes we changed the text and made some corrections. All changes are marked by green color.

 

Reviewer 1

 

1. On page 1, line 29, can the authors add the reference of ZnO used for this application? In addition, can the authors provide some examples of these modifying components?

 

We added some examples in the text and corresponding references (page 1).

 

2. On page 3, line 62, should it be “different from”?

 

We changed the sentence in the text (page 2).

 

3. On Page 3, line 129 to 132, why similar results of PVP/Zn(NO₃)₂ and PVP/Zn(NO3)2/SnCl2 can make the authors conclude FeCl3 does not have a significant effect?

 

We made the correction of the text (page 3).

 

4. On page 5, line 165, it should be figure 2 for the XRD.

 

You are right. We made the corresponding correction. It was our technical fault.

 

5. On page 5, line 170, how can XRD tell the absence of texture? What does it mean?

 

    The standard relative intensities of different peaks in XRD pattern given in PDF cards correspond to powder sample with random crystals orientation. At the formation of texture (preferential crystal orientation) the ratio between the intensities of different peaks is differ form the standard ratio given in PDF cards.

    In our experiments this ratio is close to the standard that suggests the random crystals orientation in prepared composites. 

 

6. Please check the caption of figure 3. How can 3a refers to both sample 1 and 3?

 

We made the correction of this caption.

 

7. What are the meanings of the number 1-7 in figure 5a? please mention it in the caption.

 

We added the information in the caption. It was our technical mistake.

 

Reviewer 2 This manuscript reported the efficient absorption and photodegradation of organic dye rhodamine over ZnO-SnO₂-Fe₂O₃ composite. This work is interesting and provides some useful information for readers. However, before considering it to be published, some suggestions are provided as follows:

1. The authors tested samples 1, 2 and 4 in XRD and samples 1, 3 and 4 in SEM. The object samples for characterization need to be unified.

    We added SEM image for the sample 2.

2. In Fig.4b, the authors concluded the generation of singlet oxygen (¹O₂) through the photoluminescence spectrum. It is suggested to supplement the free radical capture experiment (TEMP as the capture agent) to ensure the generation of ¹O₂in the reaction process. Some documents about EPR tests may be available for reference, e.g.,Chemical Engineering Journal 444 (2022) 136709.

    Thank you for this reference. This is very interesting work and we have added it as reference in our article (ref. [24]). Your proposal to study of free radical capture using TEMP is interesting also.  However, we think that this subject should be studied in detail in the additional work in future. 

2. In lines 305 to 312, the author mentioned the band gap of composite materials. It is suggested to supplement the UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) experiment.

    You are right that the application of UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) often is useful at the study of photocatalytic materials. However, these data are difficult for the interpretation for the composites containing many different semiconductor crystals with close band gap values. We think that the detailed study of the diffuse reflection spectra of such composites is the subject of additional work in future. Also, these experiments can overload the article with data. 

4. Please confirm the presence of heterostructure, and give the diagram of heterostructure among ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃. 

   You are right that the electronic structure and the diagram of heterostructure of photocatalytic materials are very important. However, according to XRD data (Fig.2), obtained materials contain, besides ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃, other crystals (ZnFe₂O₄; Zn₂SnO₄). The band gap of ZnFe₂O₄ crystals is ~ 1.9 eV (Li X., Jin B., Huang J., Zhang Q., Peng R., Chu S., Fe₂O₃/ZnO/ZnFe₂O₄ composites for the efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes under visible light. Solid State Science, 2018, V.80, P.6-14.) and this material demonstrates high photocatalytic properties. Therefore, we think that the correct heterostructure diagram should include also the electronic structures of ZnFe₂O₄ and Zn₂SnO₄ and it should be the subject of future additional study.

    We added some text and the corresponding reference in the “Discussion”section.

 

5. The description of the article template needs to be deleted. Such as lines 118 to 120.

The description of the article template was removed. It was our technical fault.

6. English writing needs to follow the rules of grammar. The English writing should be checked carefully.

We modified the English writing and made some corrections.

Thank you.

Best regards,

Evstropiev S.K.

Dear Reviewers,

 

Thank you for the detail consideration of our article. According to your notes we changed the text and made some corrections. All changes are marked by green color.

 

Reviewer 1

 

1. On page 1, line 29, can the authors add the reference of ZnO used for this application? In addition, can the authors provide some examples of these modifying components?

 

We added some examples in the text and corresponding references (page 1).

 

2. On page 3, line 62, should it be “different from”?

 

We changed the sentence in the text (page 2).

 

3. On Page 3, line 129 to 132, why similar results of PVP/Zn(NO₃)₂ and PVP/Zn(NO3)2/SnCl2 can make the authors conclude FeCl3 does not have a significant effect?

 

We made the correction of the text (page 3).

 

4. On page 5, line 165, it should be figure 2 for the XRD.

 

You are right. We made the corresponding correction. It was our technical fault.

 

5. On page 5, line 170, how can XRD tell the absence of texture? What does it mean?

 

    The standard relative intensities of different peaks in XRD pattern given in PDF cards correspond to powder sample with random crystals orientation. At the formation of texture (preferential crystal orientation) the ratio between the intensities of different peaks is differ form the standard ratio given in PDF cards.

    In our experiments this ratio is close to the standard that suggests the random crystals orientation in prepared composites. 

 

6. Please check the caption of figure 3. How can 3a refers to both sample 1 and 3?

 

We made the correction of this caption.

 

7. What are the meanings of the number 1-7 in figure 5a? please mention it in the caption.

 

We added the information in the caption. It was our technical mistake.

 

Reviewer 2 This manuscript reported the efficient absorption and photodegradation of organic dye rhodamine over ZnO-SnO₂-Fe₂O₃ composite. This work is interesting and provides some useful information for readers. However, before considering it to be published, some suggestions are provided as follows:

1. The authors tested samples 1, 2 and 4 in XRD and samples 1, 3 and 4 in SEM. The object samples for characterization need to be unified.

    We added SEM image for the sample 2.

2. In Fig.4b, the authors concluded the generation of singlet oxygen (¹O₂) through the photoluminescence spectrum. It is suggested to supplement the free radical capture experiment (TEMP as the capture agent) to ensure the generation of ¹O₂in the reaction process. Some documents about EPR tests may be available for reference, e.g.,Chemical Engineering Journal 444 (2022) 136709.

    Thank you for this reference. This is very interesting work and we have added it as reference in our article (ref. [24]). Your proposal to study of free radical capture using TEMP is interesting also.  However, we think that this subject should be studied in detail in the additional work in future. 

2. In lines 305 to 312, the author mentioned the band gap of composite materials. It is suggested to supplement the UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) experiment.

    You are right that the application of UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) often is useful at the study of photocatalytic materials. However, these data are difficult for the interpretation for the composites containing many different semiconductor crystals with close band gap values. We think that the detailed study of the diffuse reflection spectra of such composites is the subject of additional work in future. Also, these experiments can overload the article with data. 

4. Please confirm the presence of heterostructure, and give the diagram of heterostructure among ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃. 

   You are right that the electronic structure and the diagram of heterostructure of photocatalytic materials are very important. However, according to XRD data (Fig.2), obtained materials contain, besides ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃, other crystals (ZnFe₂O₄; Zn₂SnO₄). The band gap of ZnFe₂O₄ crystals is ~ 1.9 eV (Li X., Jin B., Huang J., Zhang Q., Peng R., Chu S., Fe₂O₃/ZnO/ZnFe₂O₄ composites for the efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes under visible light. Solid State Science, 2018, V.80, P.6-14.) and this material demonstrates high photocatalytic properties. Therefore, we think that the correct heterostructure diagram should include also the electronic structures of ZnFe₂O₄ and Zn₂SnO₄ and it should be the subject of future additional study.

    We added some text and the corresponding reference in the “Discussion”section.

 

5. The description of the article template needs to be deleted. Such as lines 118 to 120.

The description of the article template was removed. It was our technical fault.

6. English writing needs to follow the rules of grammar. The English writing should be checked carefully.

We modified the English writing and made some corrections.

Thank you.

Best regards,

Evstropiev S.K.

Dear Reviewers,

 

Thank you for the detail consideration of our article. According to your notes we changed the text and made some corrections. All changes are marked by green color.

 

Reviewer 1

 

1. On page 1, line 29, can the authors add the reference of ZnO used for this application? In addition, can the authors provide some examples of these modifying components?

 

We added some examples in the text and corresponding references (page 1).

 

2. On page 3, line 62, should it be “different from”?

 

We changed the sentence in the text (page 2).

 

3. On Page 3, line 129 to 132, why similar results of PVP/Zn(NO₃)₂ and PVP/Zn(NO3)2/SnCl2 can make the authors conclude FeCl3 does not have a significant effect?

 

We made the correction of the text (page 3).

 

4. On page 5, line 165, it should be figure 2 for the XRD.

 

You are right. We made the corresponding correction. It was our technical fault.

 

5. On page 5, line 170, how can XRD tell the absence of texture? What does it mean?

 

    The standard relative intensities of different peaks in XRD pattern given in PDF cards correspond to powder sample with random crystals orientation. At the formation of texture (preferential crystal orientation) the ratio between the intensities of different peaks is differ form the standard ratio given in PDF cards.

    In our experiments this ratio is close to the standard that suggests the random crystals orientation in prepared composites. 

 

6. Please check the caption of figure 3. How can 3a refers to both sample 1 and 3?

 

We made the correction of this caption.

 

7. What are the meanings of the number 1-7 in figure 5a? please mention it in the caption.

 

We added the information in the caption. It was our technical mistake.

 

Reviewer 2 This manuscript reported the efficient absorption and photodegradation of organic dye rhodamine over ZnO-SnO₂-Fe₂O₃ composite. This work is interesting and provides some useful information for readers. However, before considering it to be published, some suggestions are provided as follows:

1. The authors tested samples 1, 2 and 4 in XRD and samples 1, 3 and 4 in SEM. The object samples for characterization need to be unified.

    We added SEM image for the sample 2.

2. In Fig.4b, the authors concluded the generation of singlet oxygen (¹O₂) through the photoluminescence spectrum. It is suggested to supplement the free radical capture experiment (TEMP as the capture agent) to ensure the generation of ¹O₂in the reaction process. Some documents about EPR tests may be available for reference, e.g.,Chemical Engineering Journal 444 (2022) 136709.

    Thank you for this reference. This is very interesting work and we have added it as reference in our article (ref. [24]). Your proposal to study of free radical capture using TEMP is interesting also.  However, we think that this subject should be studied in detail in the additional work in future. 

2. In lines 305 to 312, the author mentioned the band gap of composite materials. It is suggested to supplement the UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) experiment.

    You are right that the application of UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) often is useful at the study of photocatalytic materials. However, these data are difficult for the interpretation for the composites containing many different semiconductor crystals with close band gap values. We think that the detailed study of the diffuse reflection spectra of such composites is the subject of additional work in future. Also, these experiments can overload the article with data. 

4. Please confirm the presence of heterostructure, and give the diagram of heterostructure among ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃. 

   You are right that the electronic structure and the diagram of heterostructure of photocatalytic materials are very important. However, according to XRD data (Fig.2), obtained materials contain, besides ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃, other crystals (ZnFe₂O₄; Zn₂SnO₄). The band gap of ZnFe₂O₄ crystals is ~ 1.9 eV (Li X., Jin B., Huang J., Zhang Q., Peng R., Chu S., Fe₂O₃/ZnO/ZnFe₂O₄ composites for the efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes under visible light. Solid State Science, 2018, V.80, P.6-14.) and this material demonstrates high photocatalytic properties. Therefore, we think that the correct heterostructure diagram should include also the electronic structures of ZnFe₂O₄ and Zn₂SnO₄ and it should be the subject of future additional study.

    We added some text and the corresponding reference in the “Discussion”section.

 

5. The description of the article template needs to be deleted. Such as lines 118 to 120.

The description of the article template was removed. It was our technical fault.

6. English writing needs to follow the rules of grammar. The English writing should be checked carefully.

We modified the English writing and made some corrections.

Thank you.

Best regards,

Evstropiev S.K.

Dear Reviewers,

 

Thank you for the detail consideration of our article. According to your notes we changed the text and made some corrections. All changes are marked by green color.

 

Reviewer 1

 

1. On page 1, line 29, can the authors add the reference of ZnO used for this application? In addition, can the authors provide some examples of these modifying components?

 

We added some examples in the text and corresponding references (page 1).

 

2. On page 3, line 62, should it be “different from”?

 

We changed the sentence in the text (page 2).

 

3. On Page 3, line 129 to 132, why similar results of PVP/Zn(NO₃)₂ and PVP/Zn(NO3)2/SnCl2 can make the authors conclude FeCl3 does not have a significant effect?

 

We made the correction of the text (page 3).

 

4. On page 5, line 165, it should be figure 2 for the XRD.

 

You are right. We made the corresponding correction. It was our technical fault.

 

5. On page 5, line 170, how can XRD tell the absence of texture? What does it mean?

 

    The standard relative intensities of different peaks in XRD pattern given in PDF cards correspond to powder sample with random crystals orientation. At the formation of texture (preferential crystal orientation) the ratio between the intensities of different peaks is differ form the standard ratio given in PDF cards.

    In our experiments this ratio is close to the standard that suggests the random crystals orientation in prepared composites. 

 

6. Please check the caption of figure 3. How can 3a refers to both sample 1 and 3?

 

We made the correction of this caption.

 

7. What are the meanings of the number 1-7 in figure 5a? please mention it in the caption.

 

We added the information in the caption. It was our technical mistake.

 

Reviewer 2 This manuscript reported the efficient absorption and photodegradation of organic dye rhodamine over ZnO-SnO₂-Fe₂O₃ composite. This work is interesting and provides some useful information for readers. However, before considering it to be published, some suggestions are provided as follows:

1. The authors tested samples 1, 2 and 4 in XRD and samples 1, 3 and 4 in SEM. The object samples for characterization need to be unified.

    We added SEM image for the sample 2.

2. In Fig.4b, the authors concluded the generation of singlet oxygen (¹O₂) through the photoluminescence spectrum. It is suggested to supplement the free radical capture experiment (TEMP as the capture agent) to ensure the generation of ¹O₂in the reaction process. Some documents about EPR tests may be available for reference, e.g.,Chemical Engineering Journal 444 (2022) 136709.

    Thank you for this reference. This is very interesting work and we have added it as reference in our article (ref. [24]). Your proposal to study of free radical capture using TEMP is interesting also.  However, we think that this subject should be studied in detail in the additional work in future. 

2. In lines 305 to 312, the author mentioned the band gap of composite materials. It is suggested to supplement the UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) experiment.

    You are right that the application of UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) often is useful at the study of photocatalytic materials. However, these data are difficult for the interpretation for the composites containing many different semiconductor crystals with close band gap values. We think that the detailed study of the diffuse reflection spectra of such composites is the subject of additional work in future. Also, these experiments can overload the article with data. 

4. Please confirm the presence of heterostructure, and give the diagram of heterostructure among ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃. 

   You are right that the electronic structure and the diagram of heterostructure of photocatalytic materials are very important. However, according to XRD data (Fig.2), obtained materials contain, besides ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃, other crystals (ZnFe₂O₄; Zn₂SnO₄). The band gap of ZnFe₂O₄ crystals is ~ 1.9 eV (Li X., Jin B., Huang J., Zhang Q., Peng R., Chu S., Fe₂O₃/ZnO/ZnFe₂O₄ composites for the efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes under visible light. Solid State Science, 2018, V.80, P.6-14.) and this material demonstrates high photocatalytic properties. Therefore, we think that the correct heterostructure diagram should include also the electronic structures of ZnFe₂O₄ and Zn₂SnO₄ and it should be the subject of future additional study.

    We added some text and the corresponding reference in the “Discussion”section.

 

5. The description of the article template needs to be deleted. Such as lines 118 to 120.

The description of the article template was removed. It was our technical fault.

6. English writing needs to follow the rules of grammar. The English writing should be checked carefully.

We modified the English writing and made some corrections.

Thank you.

Best regards,

Evstropiev S.K.

Dear Reviewers,

 

Thank you for the detail consideration of our article. According to your notes we changed the text and made some corrections. All changes are marked by green color.

 

Reviewer 1

 

1. On page 1, line 29, can the authors add the reference of ZnO used for this application? In addition, can the authors provide some examples of these modifying components?

 

We added some examples in the text and corresponding references (page 1).

 

2. On page 3, line 62, should it be “different from”?

 

We changed the sentence in the text (page 2).

 

3. On Page 3, line 129 to 132, why similar results of PVP/Zn(NO₃)₂ and PVP/Zn(NO3)2/SnCl2 can make the authors conclude FeCl3 does not have a significant effect?

 

We made the correction of the text (page 3).

 

4. On page 5, line 165, it should be figure 2 for the XRD.

 

You are right. We made the corresponding correction. It was our technical fault.

 

5. On page 5, line 170, how can XRD tell the absence of texture? What does it mean?

 

    The standard relative intensities of different peaks in XRD pattern given in PDF cards correspond to powder sample with random crystals orientation. At the formation of texture (preferential crystal orientation) the ratio between the intensities of different peaks is differ form the standard ratio given in PDF cards.

    In our experiments this ratio is close to the standard that suggests the random crystals orientation in prepared composites. 

 

6. Please check the caption of figure 3. How can 3a refers to both sample 1 and 3?

 

We made the correction of this caption.

 

7. What are the meanings of the number 1-7 in figure 5a? please mention it in the caption.

 

We added the information in the caption. It was our technical mistake.

 

Reviewer 2 This manuscript reported the efficient absorption and photodegradation of organic dye rhodamine over ZnO-SnO₂-Fe₂O₃ composite. This work is interesting and provides some useful information for readers. However, before considering it to be published, some suggestions are provided as follows:

1. The authors tested samples 1, 2 and 4 in XRD and samples 1, 3 and 4 in SEM. The object samples for characterization need to be unified.

    We added SEM image for the sample 2.

2. In Fig.4b, the authors concluded the generation of singlet oxygen (¹O₂) through the photoluminescence spectrum. It is suggested to supplement the free radical capture experiment (TEMP as the capture agent) to ensure the generation of ¹O₂in the reaction process. Some documents about EPR tests may be available for reference, e.g.,Chemical Engineering Journal 444 (2022) 136709.

    Thank you for this reference. This is very interesting work and we have added it as reference in our article (ref. [24]). Your proposal to study of free radical capture using TEMP is interesting also.  However, we think that this subject should be studied in detail in the additional work in future. 

2. In lines 305 to 312, the author mentioned the band gap of composite materials. It is suggested to supplement the UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) experiment.

    You are right that the application of UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) often is useful at the study of photocatalytic materials. However, these data are difficult for the interpretation for the composites containing many different semiconductor crystals with close band gap values. We think that the detailed study of the diffuse reflection spectra of such composites is the subject of additional work in future. Also, these experiments can overload the article with data. 

4. Please confirm the presence of heterostructure, and give the diagram of heterostructure among ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃. 

   You are right that the electronic structure and the diagram of heterostructure of photocatalytic materials are very important. However, according to XRD data (Fig.2), obtained materials contain, besides ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃, other crystals (ZnFe₂O₄; Zn₂SnO₄). The band gap of ZnFe₂O₄ crystals is ~ 1.9 eV (Li X., Jin B., Huang J., Zhang Q., Peng R., Chu S., Fe₂O₃/ZnO/ZnFe₂O₄ composites for the efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes under visible light. Solid State Science, 2018, V.80, P.6-14.) and this material demonstrates high photocatalytic properties. Therefore, we think that the correct heterostructure diagram should include also the electronic structures of ZnFe₂O₄ and Zn₂SnO₄ and it should be the subject of future additional study.

    We added some text and the corresponding reference in the “Discussion”section.

 

5. The description of the article template needs to be deleted. Such as lines 118 to 120.

The description of the article template was removed. It was our technical fault.

6. English writing needs to follow the rules of grammar. The English writing should be checked carefully.

We modified the English writing and made some corrections.

Thank you.

Best regards,

Evstropiev S.K.

Dear Reviewers,

 

Thank you for the detail consideration of our article. According to your notes we changed the text and made some corrections. All changes are marked by green color.

 

Reviewer 1

 

1. On page 1, line 29, can the authors add the reference of ZnO used for this application? In addition, can the authors provide some examples of these modifying components?

 

We added some examples in the text and corresponding references (page 1).

 

2. On page 3, line 62, should it be “different from”?

 

We changed the sentence in the text (page 2).

 

3. On Page 3, line 129 to 132, why similar results of PVP/Zn(NO₃)₂ and PVP/Zn(NO3)2/SnCl2 can make the authors conclude FeCl3 does not have a significant effect?

 

We made the correction of the text (page 3).

 

4. On page 5, line 165, it should be figure 2 for the XRD.

 

You are right. We made the corresponding correction. It was our technical fault.

 

5. On page 5, line 170, how can XRD tell the absence of texture? What does it mean?

 

    The standard relative intensities of different peaks in XRD pattern given in PDF cards correspond to powder sample with random crystals orientation. At the formation of texture (preferential crystal orientation) the ratio between the intensities of different peaks is differ form the standard ratio given in PDF cards.

    In our experiments this ratio is close to the standard that suggests the random crystals orientation in prepared composites. 

 

6. Please check the caption of figure 3. How can 3a refers to both sample 1 and 3?

 

We made the correction of this caption.

 

7. What are the meanings of the number 1-7 in figure 5a? please mention it in the caption.

 

We added the information in the caption. It was our technical mistake.

 

Reviewer 2 This manuscript reported the efficient absorption and photodegradation of organic dye rhodamine over ZnO-SnO₂-Fe₂O₃ composite. This work is interesting and provides some useful information for readers. However, before considering it to be published, some suggestions are provided as follows:

1. The authors tested samples 1, 2 and 4 in XRD and samples 1, 3 and 4 in SEM. The object samples for characterization need to be unified.

    We added SEM image for the sample 2.

2. In Fig.4b, the authors concluded the generation of singlet oxygen (¹O₂) through the photoluminescence spectrum. It is suggested to supplement the free radical capture experiment (TEMP as the capture agent) to ensure the generation of ¹O₂in the reaction process. Some documents about EPR tests may be available for reference, e.g.,Chemical Engineering Journal 444 (2022) 136709.

    Thank you for this reference. This is very interesting work and we have added it as reference in our article (ref. [24]). Your proposal to study of free radical capture using TEMP is interesting also.  However, we think that this subject should be studied in detail in the additional work in future. 

2. In lines 305 to 312, the author mentioned the band gap of composite materials. It is suggested to supplement the UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) experiment.

    You are right that the application of UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) often is useful at the study of photocatalytic materials. However, these data are difficult for the interpretation for the composites containing many different semiconductor crystals with close band gap values. We think that the detailed study of the diffuse reflection spectra of such composites is the subject of additional work in future. Also, these experiments can overload the article with data. 

4. Please confirm the presence of heterostructure, and give the diagram of heterostructure among ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃. 

   You are right that the electronic structure and the diagram of heterostructure of photocatalytic materials are very important. However, according to XRD data (Fig.2), obtained materials contain, besides ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃, other crystals (ZnFe₂O₄; Zn₂SnO₄). The band gap of ZnFe₂O₄ crystals is ~ 1.9 eV (Li X., Jin B., Huang J., Zhang Q., Peng R., Chu S., Fe₂O₃/ZnO/ZnFe₂O₄ composites for the efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes under visible light. Solid State Science, 2018, V.80, P.6-14.) and this material demonstrates high photocatalytic properties. Therefore, we think that the correct heterostructure diagram should include also the electronic structures of ZnFe₂O₄ and Zn₂SnO₄ and it should be the subject of future additional study.

    We added some text and the corresponding reference in the “Discussion”section.

 

5. The description of the article template needs to be deleted. Such as lines 118 to 120.

The description of the article template was removed. It was our technical fault.

6. English writing needs to follow the rules of grammar. The English writing should be checked carefully.

We modified the English writing and made some corrections.

Thank you.

Best regards,

Evstropiev S.K.

Dear Reviewers,

 

Thank you for the detail consideration of our article. According to your notes we changed the text and made some corrections. All changes are marked by green color.

 

Reviewer 1

 

1. On page 1, line 29, can the authors add the reference of ZnO used for this application? In addition, can the authors provide some examples of these modifying components?

 

We added some examples in the text and corresponding references (page 1).

 

2. On page 3, line 62, should it be “different from”?

 

We changed the sentence in the text (page 2).

 

3. On Page 3, line 129 to 132, why similar results of PVP/Zn(NO₃)₂ and PVP/Zn(NO3)2/SnCl2 can make the authors conclude FeCl3 does not have a significant effect?

 

We made the correction of the text (page 3).

 

4. On page 5, line 165, it should be figure 2 for the XRD.

 

You are right. We made the corresponding correction. It was our technical fault.

 

5. On page 5, line 170, how can XRD tell the absence of texture? What does it mean?

 

    The standard relative intensities of different peaks in XRD pattern given in PDF cards correspond to powder sample with random crystals orientation. At the formation of texture (preferential crystal orientation) the ratio between the intensities of different peaks is differ form the standard ratio given in PDF cards.

    In our experiments this ratio is close to the standard that suggests the random crystals orientation in prepared composites. 

 

6. Please check the caption of figure 3. How can 3a refers to both sample 1 and 3?

 

We made the correction of this caption.

 

7. What are the meanings of the number 1-7 in figure 5a? please mention it in the caption.

 

We added the information in the caption. It was our technical mistake.

 

Reviewer 2 This manuscript reported the efficient absorption and photodegradation of organic dye rhodamine over ZnO-SnO₂-Fe₂O₃ composite. This work is interesting and provides some useful information for readers. However, before considering it to be published, some suggestions are provided as follows:

1. The authors tested samples 1, 2 and 4 in XRD and samples 1, 3 and 4 in SEM. The object samples for characterization need to be unified.

    We added SEM image for the sample 2.

2. In Fig.4b, the authors concluded the generation of singlet oxygen (¹O₂) through the photoluminescence spectrum. It is suggested to supplement the free radical capture experiment (TEMP as the capture agent) to ensure the generation of ¹O₂in the reaction process. Some documents about EPR tests may be available for reference, e.g.,Chemical Engineering Journal 444 (2022) 136709.

    Thank you for this reference. This is very interesting work and we have added it as reference in our article (ref. [24]). Your proposal to study of free radical capture using TEMP is interesting also.  However, we think that this subject should be studied in detail in the additional work in future. 

2. In lines 305 to 312, the author mentioned the band gap of composite materials. It is suggested to supplement the UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) experiment.

    You are right that the application of UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) often is useful at the study of photocatalytic materials. However, these data are difficult for the interpretation for the composites containing many different semiconductor crystals with close band gap values. We think that the detailed study of the diffuse reflection spectra of such composites is the subject of additional work in future. Also, these experiments can overload the article with data. 

4. Please confirm the presence of heterostructure, and give the diagram of heterostructure among ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃. 

   You are right that the electronic structure and the diagram of heterostructure of photocatalytic materials are very important. However, according to XRD data (Fig.2), obtained materials contain, besides ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃, other crystals (ZnFe₂O₄; Zn₂SnO₄). The band gap of ZnFe₂O₄ crystals is ~ 1.9 eV (Li X., Jin B., Huang J., Zhang Q., Peng R., Chu S., Fe₂O₃/ZnO/ZnFe₂O₄ composites for the efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes under visible light. Solid State Science, 2018, V.80, P.6-14.) and this material demonstrates high photocatalytic properties. Therefore, we think that the correct heterostructure diagram should include also the electronic structures of ZnFe₂O₄ and Zn₂SnO₄ and it should be the subject of future additional study.

    We added some text and the corresponding reference in the “Discussion”section.

 

5. The description of the article template needs to be deleted. Such as lines 118 to 120.

The description of the article template was removed. It was our technical fault.

6. English writing needs to follow the rules of grammar. The English writing should be checked carefully.

We modified the English writing and made some corrections.

Thank you.

Best regards,

Evstropiev S.K.

Dear Reviewers,

 

Thank you for the detail consideration of our article. According to your notes we changed the text and made some corrections. All changes are marked by green color.

 

Reviewer 1

 

1. On page 1, line 29, can the authors add the reference of ZnO used for this application? In addition, can the authors provide some examples of these modifying components?

 

We added some examples in the text and corresponding references (page 1).

 

2. On page 3, line 62, should it be “different from”?

 

We changed the sentence in the text (page 2).

 

3. On Page 3, line 129 to 132, why similar results of PVP/Zn(NO₃)₂ and PVP/Zn(NO3)2/SnCl2 can make the authors conclude FeCl3 does not have a significant effect?

 

We made the correction of the text (page 3).

 

4. On page 5, line 165, it should be figure 2 for the XRD.

 

You are right. We made the corresponding correction. It was our technical fault.

 

5. On page 5, line 170, how can XRD tell the absence of texture? What does it mean?

 

    The standard relative intensities of different peaks in XRD pattern given in PDF cards correspond to powder sample with random crystals orientation. At the formation of texture (preferential crystal orientation) the ratio between the intensities of different peaks is differ form the standard ratio given in PDF cards.

    In our experiments this ratio is close to the standard that suggests the random crystals orientation in prepared composites. 

 

6. Please check the caption of figure 3. How can 3a refers to both sample 1 and 3?

 

We made the correction of this caption.

 

7. What are the meanings of the number 1-7 in figure 5a? please mention it in the caption.

 

We added the information in the caption. It was our technical mistake.

 

Reviewer 2 This manuscript reported the efficient absorption and photodegradation of organic dye rhodamine over ZnO-SnO₂-Fe₂O₃ composite. This work is interesting and provides some useful information for readers. However, before considering it to be published, some suggestions are provided as follows:

1. The authors tested samples 1, 2 and 4 in XRD and samples 1, 3 and 4 in SEM. The object samples for characterization need to be unified.

    We added SEM image for the sample 2.

2. In Fig.4b, the authors concluded the generation of singlet oxygen (¹O₂) through the photoluminescence spectrum. It is suggested to supplement the free radical capture experiment (TEMP as the capture agent) to ensure the generation of ¹O₂in the reaction process. Some documents about EPR tests may be available for reference, e.g.,Chemical Engineering Journal 444 (2022) 136709.

    Thank you for this reference. This is very interesting work and we have added it as reference in our article (ref. [24]). Your proposal to study of free radical capture using TEMP is interesting also.  However, we think that this subject should be studied in detail in the additional work in future. 

2. In lines 305 to 312, the author mentioned the band gap of composite materials. It is suggested to supplement the UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) experiment.

    You are right that the application of UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) often is useful at the study of photocatalytic materials. However, these data are difficult for the interpretation for the composites containing many different semiconductor crystals with close band gap values. We think that the detailed study of the diffuse reflection spectra of such composites is the subject of additional work in future. Also, these experiments can overload the article with data. 

4. Please confirm the presence of heterostructure, and give the diagram of heterostructure among ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃. 

   You are right that the electronic structure and the diagram of heterostructure of photocatalytic materials are very important. However, according to XRD data (Fig.2), obtained materials contain, besides ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃, other crystals (ZnFe₂O₄; Zn₂SnO₄). The band gap of ZnFe₂O₄ crystals is ~ 1.9 eV (Li X., Jin B., Huang J., Zhang Q., Peng R., Chu S., Fe₂O₃/ZnO/ZnFe₂O₄ composites for the efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes under visible light. Solid State Science, 2018, V.80, P.6-14.) and this material demonstrates high photocatalytic properties. Therefore, we think that the correct heterostructure diagram should include also the electronic structures of ZnFe₂O₄ and Zn₂SnO₄ and it should be the subject of future additional study.

    We added some text and the corresponding reference in the “Discussion”section.

 

5. The description of the article template needs to be deleted. Such as lines 118 to 120.

The description of the article template was removed. It was our technical fault.

6. English writing needs to follow the rules of grammar. The English writing should be checked carefully.

We modified the English writing and made some corrections.

Thank you.

Best regards,

Evstropiev S.K.

Dear Reviewers,

 

Thank you for the detail consideration of our article. According to your notes we changed the text and made some corrections. All changes are marked by green color.

 

Reviewer 1

 

1. On page 1, line 29, can the authors add the reference of ZnO used for this application? In addition, can the authors provide some examples of these modifying components?

 

We added some examples in the text and corresponding references (page 1).

 

2. On page 3, line 62, should it be “different from”?

 

We changed the sentence in the text (page 2).

 

3. On Page 3, line 129 to 132, why similar results of PVP/Zn(NO₃)₂ and PVP/Zn(NO3)2/SnCl2 can make the authors conclude FeCl3 does not have a significant effect?

 

We made the correction of the text (page 3).

 

4. On page 5, line 165, it should be figure 2 for the XRD.

 

You are right. We made the corresponding correction. It was our technical fault.

 

5. On page 5, line 170, how can XRD tell the absence of texture? What does it mean?

 

    The standard relative intensities of different peaks in XRD pattern given in PDF cards correspond to powder sample with random crystals orientation. At the formation of texture (preferential crystal orientation) the ratio between the intensities of different peaks is differ form the standard ratio given in PDF cards.

    In our experiments this ratio is close to the standard that suggests the random crystals orientation in prepared composites. 

 

6. Please check the caption of figure 3. How can 3a refers to both sample 1 and 3?

 

We made the correction of this caption.

 

7. What are the meanings of the number 1-7 in figure 5a? please mention it in the caption.

 

We added the information in the caption. It was our technical mistake.

 

Reviewer 2 This manuscript reported the efficient absorption and photodegradation of organic dye rhodamine over ZnO-SnO₂-Fe₂O₃ composite. This work is interesting and provides some useful information for readers. However, before considering it to be published, some suggestions are provided as follows:

1. The authors tested samples 1, 2 and 4 in XRD and samples 1, 3 and 4 in SEM. The object samples for characterization need to be unified.

    We added SEM image for the sample 2.

2. In Fig.4b, the authors concluded the generation of singlet oxygen (¹O₂) through the photoluminescence spectrum. It is suggested to supplement the free radical capture experiment (TEMP as the capture agent) to ensure the generation of ¹O₂in the reaction process. Some documents about EPR tests may be available for reference, e.g.,Chemical Engineering Journal 444 (2022) 136709.

    Thank you for this reference. This is very interesting work and we have added it as reference in our article (ref. [24]). Your proposal to study of free radical capture using TEMP is interesting also.  However, we think that this subject should be studied in detail in the additional work in future. 

2. In lines 305 to 312, the author mentioned the band gap of composite materials. It is suggested to supplement the UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) experiment.

    You are right that the application of UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) often is useful at the study of photocatalytic materials. However, these data are difficult for the interpretation for the composites containing many different semiconductor crystals with close band gap values. We think that the detailed study of the diffuse reflection spectra of such composites is the subject of additional work in future. Also, these experiments can overload the article with data. 

4. Please confirm the presence of heterostructure, and give the diagram of heterostructure among ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃. 

   You are right that the electronic structure and the diagram of heterostructure of photocatalytic materials are very important. However, according to XRD data (Fig.2), obtained materials contain, besides ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃, other crystals (ZnFe₂O₄; Zn₂SnO₄). The band gap of ZnFe₂O₄ crystals is ~ 1.9 eV (Li X., Jin B., Huang J., Zhang Q., Peng R., Chu S., Fe₂O₃/ZnO/ZnFe₂O₄ composites for the efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes under visible light. Solid State Science, 2018, V.80, P.6-14.) and this material demonstrates high photocatalytic properties. Therefore, we think that the correct heterostructure diagram should include also the electronic structures of ZnFe₂O₄ and Zn₂SnO₄ and it should be the subject of future additional study.

    We added some text and the corresponding reference in the “Discussion”section.

 

5. The description of the article template needs to be deleted. Such as lines 118 to 120.

The description of the article template was removed. It was our technical fault.

6. English writing needs to follow the rules of grammar. The English writing should be checked carefully.

We modified the English writing and made some corrections.

Thank you.

Best regards,

Evstropiev S.K.

Dear Reviewers,

 

Thank you for the detail consideration of our article. According to your notes we changed the text and made some corrections. All changes are marked by green color.

 

Reviewer 1

 

1. On page 1, line 29, can the authors add the reference of ZnO used for this application? In addition, can the authors provide some examples of these modifying components?

 

We added some examples in the text and corresponding references (page 1).

 

2. On page 3, line 62, should it be “different from”?

 

We changed the sentence in the text (page 2).

 

3. On Page 3, line 129 to 132, why similar results of PVP/Zn(NO₃)₂ and PVP/Zn(NO3)2/SnCl2 can make the authors conclude FeCl3 does not have a significant effect?

 

We made the correction of the text (page 3).

 

4. On page 5, line 165, it should be figure 2 for the XRD.

 

You are right. We made the corresponding correction. It was our technical fault.

 

5. On page 5, line 170, how can XRD tell the absence of texture? What does it mean?

 

    The standard relative intensities of different peaks in XRD pattern given in PDF cards correspond to powder sample with random crystals orientation. At the formation of texture (preferential crystal orientation) the ratio between the intensities of different peaks is differ form the standard ratio given in PDF cards.

    In our experiments this ratio is close to the standard that suggests the random crystals orientation in prepared composites. 

 

6. Please check the caption of figure 3. How can 3a refers to both sample 1 and 3?

 

We made the correction of this caption.

 

7. What are the meanings of the number 1-7 in figure 5a? please mention it in the caption.

 

We added the information in the caption. It was our technical mistake.

 

Reviewer 2 This manuscript reported the efficient absorption and photodegradation of organic dye rhodamine over ZnO-SnO₂-Fe₂O₃ composite. This work is interesting and provides some useful information for readers. However, before considering it to be published, some suggestions are provided as follows:

1. The authors tested samples 1, 2 and 4 in XRD and samples 1, 3 and 4 in SEM. The object samples for characterization need to be unified.

    We added SEM image for the sample 2.

2. In Fig.4b, the authors concluded the generation of singlet oxygen (¹O₂) through the photoluminescence spectrum. It is suggested to supplement the free radical capture experiment (TEMP as the capture agent) to ensure the generation of ¹O₂in the reaction process. Some documents about EPR tests may be available for reference, e.g.,Chemical Engineering Journal 444 (2022) 136709.

    Thank you for this reference. This is very interesting work and we have added it as reference in our article (ref. [24]). Your proposal to study of free radical capture using TEMP is interesting also.  However, we think that this subject should be studied in detail in the additional work in future. 

2. In lines 305 to 312, the author mentioned the band gap of composite materials. It is suggested to supplement the UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) experiment.

    You are right that the application of UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) often is useful at the study of photocatalytic materials. However, these data are difficult for the interpretation for the composites containing many different semiconductor crystals with close band gap values. We think that the detailed study of the diffuse reflection spectra of such composites is the subject of additional work in future. Also, these experiments can overload the article with data. 

4. Please confirm the presence of heterostructure, and give the diagram of heterostructure among ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃. 

   You are right that the electronic structure and the diagram of heterostructure of photocatalytic materials are very important. However, according to XRD data (Fig.2), obtained materials contain, besides ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃, other crystals (ZnFe₂O₄; Zn₂SnO₄). The band gap of ZnFe₂O₄ crystals is ~ 1.9 eV (Li X., Jin B., Huang J., Zhang Q., Peng R., Chu S., Fe₂O₃/ZnO/ZnFe₂O₄ composites for the efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes under visible light. Solid State Science, 2018, V.80, P.6-14.) and this material demonstrates high photocatalytic properties. Therefore, we think that the correct heterostructure diagram should include also the electronic structures of ZnFe₂O₄ and Zn₂SnO₄ and it should be the subject of future additional study.

    We added some text and the corresponding reference in the “Discussion”section.

 

5. The description of the article template needs to be deleted. Such as lines 118 to 120.

The description of the article template was removed. It was our technical fault.

6. English writing needs to follow the rules of grammar. The English writing should be checked carefully.

We modified the English writing and made some corrections.

Thank you.

Best regards,

Evstropiev S.K.

Dear Reviewers,

 

Thank you for the detail consideration of our article. According to your notes we changed the text and made some corrections. All changes are marked by green color.

 

Reviewer 1

 

1. On page 1, line 29, can the authors add the reference of ZnO used for this application? In addition, can the authors provide some examples of these modifying components?

 

We added some examples in the text and corresponding references (page 1).

 

2. On page 3, line 62, should it be “different from”?

 

We changed the sentence in the text (page 2).

 

3. On Page 3, line 129 to 132, why similar results of PVP/Zn(NO₃)₂ and PVP/Zn(NO3)2/SnCl2 can make the authors conclude FeCl3 does not have a significant effect?

 

We made the correction of the text (page 3).

 

4. On page 5, line 165, it should be figure 2 for the XRD.

 

You are right. We made the corresponding correction. It was our technical fault.

 

5. On page 5, line 170, how can XRD tell the absence of texture? What does it mean?

 

    The standard relative intensities of different peaks in XRD pattern given in PDF cards correspond to powder sample with random crystals orientation. At the formation of texture (preferential crystal orientation) the ratio between the intensities of different peaks is differ form the standard ratio given in PDF cards.

    In our experiments this ratio is close to the standard that suggests the random crystals orientation in prepared composites. 

 

6. Please check the caption of figure 3. How can 3a refers to both sample 1 and 3?

 

We made the correction of this caption.

 

7. What are the meanings of the number 1-7 in figure 5a? please mention it in the caption.

 

We added the information in the caption. It was our technical mistake.

 

Reviewer 2 This manuscript reported the efficient absorption and photodegradation of organic dye rhodamine over ZnO-SnO₂-Fe₂O₃ composite. This work is interesting and provides some useful information for readers. However, before considering it to be published, some suggestions are provided as follows:

1. The authors tested samples 1, 2 and 4 in XRD and samples 1, 3 and 4 in SEM. The object samples for characterization need to be unified.

    We added SEM image for the sample 2.

2. In Fig.4b, the authors concluded the generation of singlet oxygen (¹O₂) through the photoluminescence spectrum. It is suggested to supplement the free radical capture experiment (TEMP as the capture agent) to ensure the generation of ¹O₂in the reaction process. Some documents about EPR tests may be available for reference, e.g.,Chemical Engineering Journal 444 (2022) 136709.

    Thank you for this reference. This is very interesting work and we have added it as reference in our article (ref. [24]). Your proposal to study of free radical capture using TEMP is interesting also.  However, we think that this subject should be studied in detail in the additional work in future. 

2. In lines 305 to 312, the author mentioned the band gap of composite materials. It is suggested to supplement the UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) experiment.

    You are right that the application of UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) often is useful at the study of photocatalytic materials. However, these data are difficult for the interpretation for the composites containing many different semiconductor crystals with close band gap values. We think that the detailed study of the diffuse reflection spectra of such composites is the subject of additional work in future. Also, these experiments can overload the article with data. 

4. Please confirm the presence of heterostructure, and give the diagram of heterostructure among ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃. 

   You are right that the electronic structure and the diagram of heterostructure of photocatalytic materials are very important. However, according to XRD data (Fig.2), obtained materials contain, besides ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃, other crystals (ZnFe₂O₄; Zn₂SnO₄). The band gap of ZnFe₂O₄ crystals is ~ 1.9 eV (Li X., Jin B., Huang J., Zhang Q., Peng R., Chu S., Fe₂O₃/ZnO/ZnFe₂O₄ composites for the efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes under visible light. Solid State Science, 2018, V.80, P.6-14.) and this material demonstrates high photocatalytic properties. Therefore, we think that the correct heterostructure diagram should include also the electronic structures of ZnFe₂O₄ and Zn₂SnO₄ and it should be the subject of future additional study.

    We added some text and the corresponding reference in the “Discussion”section.

 

5. The description of the article template needs to be deleted. Such as lines 118 to 120.

The description of the article template was removed. It was our technical fault.

6. English writing needs to follow the rules of grammar. The English writing should be checked carefully.

We modified the English writing and made some corrections.

Thank you.

Best regards,

Evstropiev S.K.

Dear Reviewers,

 

Thank you for the detail consideration of our article. According to your notes we changed the text and made some corrections. All changes are marked by green color.

 

Reviewer 1

 

1. On page 1, line 29, can the authors add the reference of ZnO used for this application? In addition, can the authors provide some examples of these modifying components?

 

We added some examples in the text and corresponding references (page 1).

 

2. On page 3, line 62, should it be “different from”?

 

We changed the sentence in the text (page 2).

 

3. On Page 3, line 129 to 132, why similar results of PVP/Zn(NO₃)₂ and PVP/Zn(NO3)2/SnCl2 can make the authors conclude FeCl3 does not have a significant effect?

 

We made the correction of the text (page 3).

 

4. On page 5, line 165, it should be figure 2 for the XRD.

 

You are right. We made the corresponding correction. It was our technical fault.

 

5. On page 5, line 170, how can XRD tell the absence of texture? What does it mean?

 

    The standard relative intensities of different peaks in XRD pattern given in PDF cards correspond to powder sample with random crystals orientation. At the formation of texture (preferential crystal orientation) the ratio between the intensities of different peaks is differ form the standard ratio given in PDF cards.

    In our experiments this ratio is close to the standard that suggests the random crystals orientation in prepared composites. 

 

6. Please check the caption of figure 3. How can 3a refers to both sample 1 and 3?

 

We made the correction of this caption.

 

7. What are the meanings of the number 1-7 in figure 5a? please mention it in the caption.

 

We added the information in the caption. It was our technical mistake.

 

Reviewer 2 This manuscript reported the efficient absorption and photodegradation of organic dye rhodamine over ZnO-SnO₂-Fe₂O₃ composite. This work is interesting and provides some useful information for readers. However, before considering it to be published, some suggestions are provided as follows:

1. The authors tested samples 1, 2 and 4 in XRD and samples 1, 3 and 4 in SEM. The object samples for characterization need to be unified.

    We added SEM image for the sample 2.

2. In Fig.4b, the authors concluded the generation of singlet oxygen (¹O₂) through the photoluminescence spectrum. It is suggested to supplement the free radical capture experiment (TEMP as the capture agent) to ensure the generation of ¹O₂in the reaction process. Some documents about EPR tests may be available for reference, e.g.,Chemical Engineering Journal 444 (2022) 136709.

    Thank you for this reference. This is very interesting work and we have added it as reference in our article (ref. [24]). Your proposal to study of free radical capture using TEMP is interesting also.  However, we think that this subject should be studied in detail in the additional work in future. 

2. In lines 305 to 312, the author mentioned the band gap of composite materials. It is suggested to supplement the UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) experiment.

    You are right that the application of UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) often is useful at the study of photocatalytic materials. However, these data are difficult for the interpretation for the composites containing many different semiconductor crystals with close band gap values. We think that the detailed study of the diffuse reflection spectra of such composites is the subject of additional work in future. Also, these experiments can overload the article with data. 

4. Please confirm the presence of heterostructure, and give the diagram of heterostructure among ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃. 

   You are right that the electronic structure and the diagram of heterostructure of photocatalytic materials are very important. However, according to XRD data (Fig.2), obtained materials contain, besides ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃, other crystals (ZnFe₂O₄; Zn₂SnO₄). The band gap of ZnFe₂O₄ crystals is ~ 1.9 eV (Li X., Jin B., Huang J., Zhang Q., Peng R., Chu S., Fe₂O₃/ZnO/ZnFe₂O₄ composites for the efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes under visible light. Solid State Science, 2018, V.80, P.6-14.) and this material demonstrates high photocatalytic properties. Therefore, we think that the correct heterostructure diagram should include also the electronic structures of ZnFe₂O₄ and Zn₂SnO₄ and it should be the subject of future additional study.

    We added some text and the corresponding reference in the “Discussion”section.

 

5. The description of the article template needs to be deleted. Such as lines 118 to 120.

The description of the article template was removed. It was our technical fault.

6. English writing needs to follow the rules of grammar. The English writing should be checked carefully.

We modified the English writing and made some corrections.

Thank you.

Best regards,

Evstropiev S.K.

Dear Reviewers,

 

Thank you for the detail consideration of our article. According to your notes we changed the text and made some corrections. All changes are marked by green color.

 

Reviewer 1

 

1. On page 1, line 29, can the authors add the reference of ZnO used for this application? In addition, can the authors provide some examples of these modifying components?

 

We added some examples in the text and corresponding references (page 1).

 

2. On page 3, line 62, should it be “different from”?

 

We changed the sentence in the text (page 2).

 

3. On Page 3, line 129 to 132, why similar results of PVP/Zn(NO₃)₂ and PVP/Zn(NO3)2/SnCl2 can make the authors conclude FeCl3 does not have a significant effect?

 

We made the correction of the text (page 3).

 

4. On page 5, line 165, it should be figure 2 for the XRD.

 

You are right. We made the corresponding correction. It was our technical fault.

 

5. On page 5, line 170, how can XRD tell the absence of texture? What does it mean?

 

    The standard relative intensities of different peaks in XRD pattern given in PDF cards correspond to powder sample with random crystals orientation. At the formation of texture (preferential crystal orientation) the ratio between the intensities of different peaks is differ form the standard ratio given in PDF cards.

    In our experiments this ratio is close to the standard that suggests the random crystals orientation in prepared composites. 

 

6. Please check the caption of figure 3. How can 3a refers to both sample 1 and 3?

 

We made the correction of this caption.

 

7. What are the meanings of the number 1-7 in figure 5a? please mention it in the caption.

 

We added the information in the caption. It was our technical mistake.

 

Reviewer 2 This manuscript reported the efficient absorption and photodegradation of organic dye rhodamine over ZnO-SnO₂-Fe₂O₃ composite. This work is interesting and provides some useful information for readers. However, before considering it to be published, some suggestions are provided as follows:

1. The authors tested samples 1, 2 and 4 in XRD and samples 1, 3 and 4 in SEM. The object samples for characterization need to be unified.

    We added SEM image for the sample 2.

2. In Fig.4b, the authors concluded the generation of singlet oxygen (¹O₂) through the photoluminescence spectrum. It is suggested to supplement the free radical capture experiment (TEMP as the capture agent) to ensure the generation of ¹O₂in the reaction process. Some documents about EPR tests may be available for reference, e.g.,Chemical Engineering Journal 444 (2022) 136709.

    Thank you for this reference. This is very interesting work and we have added it as reference in our article (ref. [24]). Your proposal to study of free radical capture using TEMP is interesting also.  However, we think that this subject should be studied in detail in the additional work in future. 

2. In lines 305 to 312, the author mentioned the band gap of composite materials. It is suggested to supplement the UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) experiment.

    You are right that the application of UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) often is useful at the study of photocatalytic materials. However, these data are difficult for the interpretation for the composites containing many different semiconductor crystals with close band gap values. We think that the detailed study of the diffuse reflection spectra of such composites is the subject of additional work in future. Also, these experiments can overload the article with data. 

4. Please confirm the presence of heterostructure, and give the diagram of heterostructure among ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃. 

   You are right that the electronic structure and the diagram of heterostructure of photocatalytic materials are very important. However, according to XRD data (Fig.2), obtained materials contain, besides ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃, other crystals (ZnFe₂O₄; Zn₂SnO₄). The band gap of ZnFe₂O₄ crystals is ~ 1.9 eV (Li X., Jin B., Huang J., Zhang Q., Peng R., Chu S., Fe₂O₃/ZnO/ZnFe₂O₄ composites for the efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes under visible light. Solid State Science, 2018, V.80, P.6-14.) and this material demonstrates high photocatalytic properties. Therefore, we think that the correct heterostructure diagram should include also the electronic structures of ZnFe₂O₄ and Zn₂SnO₄ and it should be the subject of future additional study.

    We added some text and the corresponding reference in the “Discussion”section.

 

5. The description of the article template needs to be deleted. Such as lines 118 to 120.

The description of the article template was removed. It was our technical fault.

6. English writing needs to follow the rules of grammar. The English writing should be checked carefully.

We modified the English writing and made some corrections.

Thank you.

Best regards,

Evstropiev S.K.

Dear Reviewers,

 

Thank you for the detail consideration of our article. According to your notes we changed the text and made some corrections. All changes are marked by green color.

 

Reviewer 1

 

1. On page 1, line 29, can the authors add the reference of ZnO used for this application? In addition, can the authors provide some examples of these modifying components?

 

We added some examples in the text and corresponding references (page 1).

 

2. On page 3, line 62, should it be “different from”?

 

We changed the sentence in the text (page 2).

 

3. On Page 3, line 129 to 132, why similar results of PVP/Zn(NO₃)₂ and PVP/Zn(NO3)2/SnCl2 can make the authors conclude FeCl3 does not have a significant effect?

 

We made the correction of the text (page 3).

 

4. On page 5, line 165, it should be figure 2 for the XRD.

 

You are right. We made the corresponding correction. It was our technical fault.

 

5. On page 5, line 170, how can XRD tell the absence of texture? What does it mean?

 

    The standard relative intensities of different peaks in XRD pattern given in PDF cards correspond to powder sample with random crystals orientation. At the formation of texture (preferential crystal orientation) the ratio between the intensities of different peaks is differ form the standard ratio given in PDF cards.

    In our experiments this ratio is close to the standard that suggests the random crystals orientation in prepared composites. 

 

6. Please check the caption of figure 3. How can 3a refers to both sample 1 and 3?

 

We made the correction of this caption.

 

7. What are the meanings of the number 1-7 in figure 5a? please mention it in the caption.

 

We added the information in the caption. It was our technical mistake.

 

Reviewer 2 This manuscript reported the efficient absorption and photodegradation of organic dye rhodamine over ZnO-SnO₂-Fe₂O₃ composite. This work is interesting and provides some useful information for readers. However, before considering it to be published, some suggestions are provided as follows:

1. The authors tested samples 1, 2 and 4 in XRD and samples 1, 3 and 4 in SEM. The object samples for characterization need to be unified.

    We added SEM image for the sample 2.

2. In Fig.4b, the authors concluded the generation of singlet oxygen (¹O₂) through the photoluminescence spectrum. It is suggested to supplement the free radical capture experiment (TEMP as the capture agent) to ensure the generation of ¹O₂in the reaction process. Some documents about EPR tests may be available for reference, e.g.,Chemical Engineering Journal 444 (2022) 136709.

    Thank you for this reference. This is very interesting work and we have added it as reference in our article (ref. [24]). Your proposal to study of free radical capture using TEMP is interesting also.  However, we think that this subject should be studied in detail in the additional work in future. 

2. In lines 305 to 312, the author mentioned the band gap of composite materials. It is suggested to supplement the UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) experiment.

    You are right that the application of UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) often is useful at the study of photocatalytic materials. However, these data are difficult for the interpretation for the composites containing many different semiconductor crystals with close band gap values. We think that the detailed study of the diffuse reflection spectra of such composites is the subject of additional work in future. Also, these experiments can overload the article with data. 

4. Please confirm the presence of heterostructure, and give the diagram of heterostructure among ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃. 

   You are right that the electronic structure and the diagram of heterostructure of photocatalytic materials are very important. However, according to XRD data (Fig.2), obtained materials contain, besides ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃, other crystals (ZnFe₂O₄; Zn₂SnO₄). The band gap of ZnFe₂O₄ crystals is ~ 1.9 eV (Li X., Jin B., Huang J., Zhang Q., Peng R., Chu S., Fe₂O₃/ZnO/ZnFe₂O₄ composites for the efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes under visible light. Solid State Science, 2018, V.80, P.6-14.) and this material demonstrates high photocatalytic properties. Therefore, we think that the correct heterostructure diagram should include also the electronic structures of ZnFe₂O₄ and Zn₂SnO₄ and it should be the subject of future additional study.

    We added some text and the corresponding reference in the “Discussion”section.

 

5. The description of the article template needs to be deleted. Such as lines 118 to 120.

The description of the article template was removed. It was our technical fault.

6. English writing needs to follow the rules of grammar. The English writing should be checked carefully.

We modified the English writing and made some corrections.

Thank you.

Best regards,

Evstropiev S.K.

Dear Reviewers,

 

Thank you for the detail consideration of our article. According to your notes we changed the text and made some corrections. All changes are marked by green color.

 

Reviewer 1

 

1. On page 1, line 29, can the authors add the reference of ZnO used for this application? In addition, can the authors provide some examples of these modifying components?

 

We added some examples in the text and corresponding references (page 1).

 

2. On page 3, line 62, should it be “different from”?

 

We changed the sentence in the text (page 2).

 

3. On Page 3, line 129 to 132, why similar results of PVP/Zn(NO₃)₂ and PVP/Zn(NO3)2/SnCl2 can make the authors conclude FeCl3 does not have a significant effect?

 

We made the correction of the text (page 3).

 

4. On page 5, line 165, it should be figure 2 for the XRD.

 

You are right. We made the corresponding correction. It was our technical fault.

 

5. On page 5, line 170, how can XRD tell the absence of texture? What does it mean?

 

    The standard relative intensities of different peaks in XRD pattern given in PDF cards correspond to powder sample with random crystals orientation. At the formation of texture (preferential crystal orientation) the ratio between the intensities of different peaks is differ form the standard ratio given in PDF cards.

    In our experiments this ratio is close to the standard that suggests the random crystals orientation in prepared composites. 

 

6. Please check the caption of figure 3. How can 3a refers to both sample 1 and 3?

 

We made the correction of this caption.

 

7. What are the meanings of the number 1-7 in figure 5a? please mention it in the caption.

 

We added the information in the caption. It was our technical mistake.

 

Reviewer 2 This manuscript reported the efficient absorption and photodegradation of organic dye rhodamine over ZnO-SnO₂-Fe₂O₃ composite. This work is interesting and provides some useful information for readers. However, before considering it to be published, some suggestions are provided as follows:

1. The authors tested samples 1, 2 and 4 in XRD and samples 1, 3 and 4 in SEM. The object samples for characterization need to be unified.

    We added SEM image for the sample 2.

2. In Fig.4b, the authors concluded the generation of singlet oxygen (¹O₂) through the photoluminescence spectrum. It is suggested to supplement the free radical capture experiment (TEMP as the capture agent) to ensure the generation of ¹O₂in the reaction process. Some documents about EPR tests may be available for reference, e.g.,Chemical Engineering Journal 444 (2022) 136709.

    Thank you for this reference. This is very interesting work and we have added it as reference in our article (ref. [24]). Your proposal to study of free radical capture using TEMP is interesting also.  However, we think that this subject should be studied in detail in the additional work in future. 

2. In lines 305 to 312, the author mentioned the band gap of composite materials. It is suggested to supplement the UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) experiment.

    You are right that the application of UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) often is useful at the study of photocatalytic materials. However, these data are difficult for the interpretation for the composites containing many different semiconductor crystals with close band gap values. We think that the detailed study of the diffuse reflection spectra of such composites is the subject of additional work in future. Also, these experiments can overload the article with data. 

4. Please confirm the presence of heterostructure, and give the diagram of heterostructure among ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃. 

   You are right that the electronic structure and the diagram of heterostructure of photocatalytic materials are very important. However, according to XRD data (Fig.2), obtained materials contain, besides ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃, other crystals (ZnFe₂O₄; Zn₂SnO₄). The band gap of ZnFe₂O₄ crystals is ~ 1.9 eV (Li X., Jin B., Huang J., Zhang Q., Peng R., Chu S., Fe₂O₃/ZnO/ZnFe₂O₄ composites for the efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes under visible light. Solid State Science, 2018, V.80, P.6-14.) and this material demonstrates high photocatalytic properties. Therefore, we think that the correct heterostructure diagram should include also the electronic structures of ZnFe₂O₄ and Zn₂SnO₄ and it should be the subject of future additional study.

    We added some text and the corresponding reference in the “Discussion”section.

 

5. The description of the article template needs to be deleted. Such as lines 118 to 120.

The description of the article template was removed. It was our technical fault.

6. English writing needs to follow the rules of grammar. The English writing should be checked carefully.

We modified the English writing and made some corrections.

Thank you.

Best regards,

Evstropiev S.K.

Dear Reviewers,

 

Thank you for the detail consideration of our article. According to your notes we changed the text and made some corrections. All changes are marked by green color.

 

Reviewer 1

 

1. On page 1, line 29, can the authors add the reference of ZnO used for this application? In addition, can the authors provide some examples of these modifying components?

 

We added some examples in the text and corresponding references (page 1).

 

2. On page 3, line 62, should it be “different from”?

 

We changed the sentence in the text (page 2).

 

3. On Page 3, line 129 to 132, why similar results of PVP/Zn(NO₃)₂ and PVP/Zn(NO3)2/SnCl2 can make the authors conclude FeCl3 does not have a significant effect?

 

We made the correction of the text (page 3).

 

4. On page 5, line 165, it should be figure 2 for the XRD.

 

You are right. We made the corresponding correction. It was our technical fault.

 

5. On page 5, line 170, how can XRD tell the absence of texture? What does it mean?

 

    The standard relative intensities of different peaks in XRD pattern given in PDF cards correspond to powder sample with random crystals orientation. At the formation of texture (preferential crystal orientation) the ratio between the intensities of different peaks is differ form the standard ratio given in PDF cards.

    In our experiments this ratio is close to the standard that suggests the random crystals orientation in prepared composites. 

 

6. Please check the caption of figure 3. How can 3a refers to both sample 1 and 3?

 

We made the correction of this caption.

 

7. What are the meanings of the number 1-7 in figure 5a? please mention it in the caption.

 

We added the information in the caption. It was our technical mistake.

 

Reviewer 2 This manuscript reported the efficient absorption and photodegradation of organic dye rhodamine over ZnO-SnO₂-Fe₂O₃ composite. This work is interesting and provides some useful information for readers. However, before considering it to be published, some suggestions are provided as follows:

1. The authors tested samples 1, 2 and 4 in XRD and samples 1, 3 and 4 in SEM. The object samples for characterization need to be unified.

    We added SEM image for the sample 2.

2. In Fig.4b, the authors concluded the generation of singlet oxygen (¹O₂) through the photoluminescence spectrum. It is suggested to supplement the free radical capture experiment (TEMP as the capture agent) to ensure the generation of ¹O₂in the reaction process. Some documents about EPR tests may be available for reference, e.g.,Chemical Engineering Journal 444 (2022) 136709.

    Thank you for this reference. This is very interesting work and we have added it as reference in our article (ref. [24]). Your proposal to study of free radical capture using TEMP is interesting also.  However, we think that this subject should be studied in detail in the additional work in future. 

2. In lines 305 to 312, the author mentioned the band gap of composite materials. It is suggested to supplement the UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) experiment.

    You are right that the application of UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) often is useful at the study of photocatalytic materials. However, these data are difficult for the interpretation for the composites containing many different semiconductor crystals with close band gap values. We think that the detailed study of the diffuse reflection spectra of such composites is the subject of additional work in future. Also, these experiments can overload the article with data. 

4. Please confirm the presence of heterostructure, and give the diagram of heterostructure among ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃. 

   You are right that the electronic structure and the diagram of heterostructure of photocatalytic materials are very important. However, according to XRD data (Fig.2), obtained materials contain, besides ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃, other crystals (ZnFe₂O₄; Zn₂SnO₄). The band gap of ZnFe₂O₄ crystals is ~ 1.9 eV (Li X., Jin B., Huang J., Zhang Q., Peng R., Chu S., Fe₂O₃/ZnO/ZnFe₂O₄ composites for the efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes under visible light. Solid State Science, 2018, V.80, P.6-14.) and this material demonstrates high photocatalytic properties. Therefore, we think that the correct heterostructure diagram should include also the electronic structures of ZnFe₂O₄ and Zn₂SnO₄ and it should be the subject of future additional study.

    We added some text and the corresponding reference in the “Discussion”section.

 

5. The description of the article template needs to be deleted. Such as lines 118 to 120.

The description of the article template was removed. It was our technical fault.

6. English writing needs to follow the rules of grammar. The English writing should be checked carefully.

We modified the English writing and made some corrections.

Thank you.

Best regards,

Evstropiev S.K.

Dear Reviewers,

 

Thank you for the detail consideration of our article. According to your notes we changed the text and made some corrections. All changes are marked by green color.

 

Reviewer 1

 

1. On page 1, line 29, can the authors add the reference of ZnO used for this application? In addition, can the authors provide some examples of these modifying components?

 

We added some examples in the text and corresponding references (page 1).

 

2. On page 3, line 62, should it be “different from”?

 

We changed the sentence in the text (page 2).

 

3. On Page 3, line 129 to 132, why similar results of PVP/Zn(NO₃)₂ and PVP/Zn(NO3)2/SnCl2 can make the authors conclude FeCl3 does not have a significant effect?

 

We made the correction of the text (page 3).

 

4. On page 5, line 165, it should be figure 2 for the XRD.

 

You are right. We made the corresponding correction. It was our technical fault.

 

5. On page 5, line 170, how can XRD tell the absence of texture? What does it mean?

 

    The standard relative intensities of different peaks in XRD pattern given in PDF cards correspond to powder sample with random crystals orientation. At the formation of texture (preferential crystal orientation) the ratio between the intensities of different peaks is differ form the standard ratio given in PDF cards.

    In our experiments this ratio is close to the standard that suggests the random crystals orientation in prepared composites. 

 

6. Please check the caption of figure 3. How can 3a refers to both sample 1 and 3?

 

We made the correction of this caption.

 

7. What are the meanings of the number 1-7 in figure 5a? please mention it in the caption.

 

We added the information in the caption. It was our technical mistake.

 

Reviewer 2 This manuscript reported the efficient absorption and photodegradation of organic dye rhodamine over ZnO-SnO₂-Fe₂O₃ composite. This work is interesting and provides some useful information for readers. However, before considering it to be published, some suggestions are provided as follows:

1. The authors tested samples 1, 2 and 4 in XRD and samples 1, 3 and 4 in SEM. The object samples for characterization need to be unified.

    We added SEM image for the sample 2.

2. In Fig.4b, the authors concluded the generation of singlet oxygen (¹O₂) through the photoluminescence spectrum. It is suggested to supplement the free radical capture experiment (TEMP as the capture agent) to ensure the generation of ¹O₂in the reaction process. Some documents about EPR tests may be available for reference, e.g.,Chemical Engineering Journal 444 (2022) 136709.

    Thank you for this reference. This is very interesting work and we have added it as reference in our article (ref. [24]). Your proposal to study of free radical capture using TEMP is interesting also.  However, we think that this subject should be studied in detail in the additional work in future. 

2. In lines 305 to 312, the author mentioned the band gap of composite materials. It is suggested to supplement the UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) experiment.

    You are right that the application of UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) often is useful at the study of photocatalytic materials. However, these data are difficult for the interpretation for the composites containing many different semiconductor crystals with close band gap values. We think that the detailed study of the diffuse reflection spectra of such composites is the subject of additional work in future. Also, these experiments can overload the article with data. 

4. Please confirm the presence of heterostructure, and give the diagram of heterostructure among ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃. 

   You are right that the electronic structure and the diagram of heterostructure of photocatalytic materials are very important. However, according to XRD data (Fig.2), obtained materials contain, besides ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃, other crystals (ZnFe₂O₄; Zn₂SnO₄). The band gap of ZnFe₂O₄ crystals is ~ 1.9 eV (Li X., Jin B., Huang J., Zhang Q., Peng R., Chu S., Fe₂O₃/ZnO/ZnFe₂O₄ composites for the efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes under visible light. Solid State Science, 2018, V.80, P.6-14.) and this material demonstrates high photocatalytic properties. Therefore, we think that the correct heterostructure diagram should include also the electronic structures of ZnFe₂O₄ and Zn₂SnO₄ and it should be the subject of future additional study.

    We added some text and the corresponding reference in the “Discussion”section.

 

5. The description of the article template needs to be deleted. Such as lines 118 to 120.

The description of the article template was removed. It was our technical fault.

6. English writing needs to follow the rules of grammar. The English writing should be checked carefully.

We modified the English writing and made some corrections.

Thank you.

Best regards,

Evstropiev S.K.

 

Author Response File: Author Response.docx

Reviewer 2 Report

This manuscript reported the efficient absorption and photodegradation of organic dye rhodamine over ZnO-SnO₂-Fe₂O₃ composite. This work is interesting and provides some useful information for readers. However, before considering it to be published, some suggestions are provided as follows:

1. The authors tested samples 1, 2 and 4 in XRD and samples 1, 3 and 4 in SEM. The object samples for characterization need to be unified.

2. In Fig.4b, the authors concluded the generation of singlet oxygen (¹O₂) through the photoluminescence spectrum. It is suggested to supplement the free radical capture experiment (TEMP as the capture agent) to ensure the generation of ¹O₂ in the reaction process. Some documents about EPR tests may be available for reference, e.g., Chemical Engineering Journal 444 (2022) 136709 .

3. In lines 305 to 312, the author mentioned the band gap of composite materials. It is suggested to supplement the UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) experiment.

4. Please confirm the presence of heterostructure, and give the diagram of heterostructure among ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃. 

5. The description of the article template needs to be deleted. Such as lines 118 to 120.

6. English writing needs to follow the rules of grammar. The English writing should be checked carefully.

Author Response

Dear Reviewers,

 

Thank you for the detail consideration of our article. According to your notes we changed the text and made some corrections. All changes are marked by green color.

 

 

Reviewer 2 This manuscript reported the efficient absorption and photodegradation of organic dye rhodamine over ZnO-SnO₂-Fe₂O₃ composite. This work is interesting and provides some useful information for readers. However, before considering it to be published, some suggestions are provided as follows:

1. The authors tested samples 1, 2 and 4 in XRD and samples 1, 3 and 4 in SEM. The object samples for characterization need to be unified.

    We added SEM image for the sample 2.

2. In Fig.4b, the authors concluded the generation of singlet oxygen (¹O₂) through the photoluminescence spectrum. It is suggested to supplement the free radical capture experiment (TEMP as the capture agent) to ensure the generation of ¹O₂in the reaction process. Some documents about EPR tests may be available for reference, e.g.,Chemical Engineering Journal 444 (2022) 136709.

    Thank you for this reference. This is very interesting work and we have added it as reference in our article (ref. [24]). Your proposal to study of free radical capture using TEMP is interesting also.  However, we think that this subject should be studied in detail in the additional work in future. 

2. In lines 305 to 312, the author mentioned the band gap of composite materials. It is suggested to supplement the UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) experiment.

    You are right that the application of UV-Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy (DRS) often is useful at the study of photocatalytic materials. However, these data are difficult for the interpretation for the composites containing many different semiconductor crystals with close band gap values. We think that the detailed study of the diffuse reflection spectra of such composites is the subject of additional work in future. Also, these experiments can overload the article with data. 

4. Please confirm the presence of heterostructure, and give the diagram of heterostructure among ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃. 

   You are right that the electronic structure and the diagram of heterostructure of photocatalytic materials are very important. However, according to XRD data (Fig.2), obtained materials contain, besides ZnO, SnO₂ and Fe₂O₃, other crystals (ZnFe₂O₄; Zn₂SnO₄). The band gap of ZnFe₂O₄ crystals is ~ 1.9 eV (Li X., Jin B., Huang J., Zhang Q., Peng R., Chu S., Fe₂O₃/ZnO/ZnFe₂O₄ composites for the efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes under visible light. Solid State Science, 2018, V.80, P.6-14.) and this material demonstrates high photocatalytic properties. Therefore, we think that the correct heterostructure diagram should include also the electronic structures of ZnFe₂O₄ and Zn₂SnO₄ and it should be the subject of future additional study.

    We added some text and the corresponding reference in the “Discussion”section.

 

5. The description of the article template needs to be deleted. Such as lines 118 to 120.

The description of the article template was removed. It was our technical fault.

6. English writing needs to follow the rules of grammar. The English writing should be checked carefully.

We modified the English writing and made some corrections.

Thank you.

Best regards,

Evstropiev S.K.

 

Round 2

Reviewer 1 Report

I feel the authors added so many "the" in this version. Some are not right.

For example, the correct sentence should be " Structural engineering is an effective way to the fabrication of different materials with high photocatalytic properties"

There are similar mistakes like this in the manuscript, please find and correct them.

 

 

 

Reviewer 2 Report

This new manuscript has been revised well according to the reviewers' suggestions, I recomend it to be accpted in this journal.