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This study successfully synthesized a composite photocatalyst g-C3N4/PbTiO3 through hydrothermal and calcination methods using PbTiO3 and g-C3N4. The catalyst was characterized by XRD, FTIR, Raman, XPS, SEM, TEM, UV–vis DRS, PL, and other techniques. The results indicate that the composite photocatalyst exhibits efficient electron transfer, enhanced light absorption, effective separation and utilization of photogenerated electron–hole pairs, demonstrating superior photocatalytic activity. Under simulated sunlight, the removal efficiency of methyl blue (MB) with an initial concentration of 10 mg/L reaches 93.0% after 120 min. After five cycles, the degradation efficiency of MB is 79.2%, still maintaining 85% of the initial catalytic activity. The pH values in the range of 4.0–7.0, inorganic anions, and water quality have a minimal impact on the photocatalytic degradation of MB. Additionally, the composite photocatalyst exhibits strong removal capabilities for other pollutants, such as tetracycline. Therefore, the prepared catalyst demonstrates good feasibility for practical applications. Free radical quenching experiments indicate that hydroxyl radicals (·OH) are the primary active groups in the photocatalytic degradation of MB. Based on this, a photocatalytic mechanism involving a S-scheme heterojunction has been proposed. This study provides new insights into preparing PbTiO3 composite semiconductors and constructing novel S-scheme heterojunctions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photocatalysis is the most effective, economical, and environmentally friendly way to protect ecosystems and communities from the risks posed by the discharge of untreated wastewater containing dyes. This study reports the efficient degradation of MB dye for both pure and doped metallic nanoparticles. The hydrothermal technique was employed to synthesize pure and Zn-doped (1 to 4%) WO 3 NPs. The morphological, structural, optical, and spectral properties were investigated through the utilization of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV–Vis), photoluminescence (PL), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and EDX analysis. The well-matched ionic radius of Zn2+ with W + 6 finds potential in dye degradations, because Zn2+ significantly contributes to the deceleration of the recombination rate of photogenerated electron/hole pairs resulting in subsequent reductions in band gap from 2.65 to 1.94 eV. For this investigation, MB dye was exposed to visible light to examine the photocatalytic activity of the synthesized NPs. It is worth mentioning that, the maximum degradation of 85% within 120 min attributed to the Burstein-Moss Effect indicates that 3% Zn-doped WO 3 catalyst exhibits the best results and the experiments involving trapping techniques have been performed to verify the stability of the optimized catalyst and the remarkable photocatalytic activity exhibited by the catalyst suggests its promising application in wastewater treatment. The synthesized nanomaterials have also been tested for antimicrobial activity. For better comprehension, a 2D model has also been simulated with the RF module of COMOSL Multiphysics 5.3a to correlate the experimental data with the theoretical findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the photocatalytic degradation of organic Methyl Blue (MB) using a ZnO-Fe2O3 composite prepared via the sol-gel technique. FTIR analysis elucidates the substantial impact of Fe2O3 addition, as evidenced by shifts in the ZnO absorption bands, notably observed at 631 cm-1 and 919.74 cm-1 peaks. X-ray diffraction (XRD) corroborates heightened crystallinity due to interactions between ZnO and Fe2O3. SEM analysis unveils a highly aggregated structure, showcasing promising capabilities for efficient dye degradation and environmental applications. Photoluminescence (PL) spectra exhibit an intensified peak at 377 nm, indicative of efficient charge separation and electron transfer, offering potential in optoelectronic applications. The composite's distinctive refractive index (n) of 2.33, extinction coefficient (k) of 2.12, optical electronegativity (X*) of 0.75, and dielectric constants (er of 0.40 and ei of 9.92) underscore its versatile bonding and broad application prospects. Evaluating the photocatalytic activity (PCA) reveals that among all samples, the nanocomposite ZnO-Fe2O3 synthesized at 500°C exhibits superior performance, showcasing heightened degradation of MB dye under 90 minutes of sunlight irradiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BaFe12O19 (BaM) hexaferrite was synthesised through the coprecipitation method. BaFe12O19-activated charcoal-chitosan (BaM-AC-CS) composite was synthesised through ultra-sonication assisted water in the oil microemulsion method. Morphology of BaM hexaferrite, activated charcoal, and BaM-AC-CS composite powder was evaluated using FESEM. The average particle size of the composite powder was 60 µm. BaM-AC-CS composite powder exhibited a surface area of 41.5 m2 g −1 and pore volume of 0.041 cm3 g−1. The magnetic behaviour of BaM and BaM-AC-CS composite was analysed using a vibrating sample magnetometer. Pure BaM ferrite showed saturation magnetisation (Ms) of 69.3 emu g −1 and coercivity of 2670 Oe. BaM-AC-CS composite powder showed a Ms value of 26.8 emu g −1 which was sufficient for efficient magnetic separation of it in water suspension. The point of zero charge (pHpzc) of composite powder was 6.7. The composite powder was used for the adsorption of methyl blue (MB) dye solution of pH of 6 at 303, 313 and 323 K respectively. The dye removal capacity increased with increase in temperature. The adsorption process followed pseudo-second-order kinetic model and satisfied Redlich-Peterson as well as Sips adsorption isotherm. The composite powder showed a maximum Sips adsorption ability of 254.6 mg g −1 at 323 K temperature. The free energy and enthalpy changes confirmed the spontaneous and endothermic nature of the adsorption. The composite powder also showed good adsorption capacity in five consecutive regeneration cycles. All these results suggest that the BaM-AC-CS powder will be a viable material for MB dye adsorption in wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractA facile rapid-combustion process was introduced for preparing magnetic CoxMgyCu(1-x-y)Fe2O4 nanoparticles, and to enhance their specific surface area and saturation magnetization, the optimization involved adjusting the element proportion, calcination temperature, and solvent amount. The optimal element proportion of x:y:(1-x-y) for CoxMgyCu(1-x-y)Fe2O4 nanoparticles was 0.1:0.7:0.2, and the effects of solvent amount, and calcination temperature were also investigated. The average particle size and specific surface area of Co0.1Mg0.7Cu0.2Fe2O4 nanoparticles calcined at 400 °C with 25 mL absolute alcohol were 17.9 nm and 56.96 m2/g, respectively; while demonstrating a saturation magnetization of 8.5 emu/g. To solve the increasingly severe issue of water pollution, these nanoparticles were employed to efficiently treat dye wastewater containing methyl blue (MB). After fitting kinetic and isotherm models, the adsorption process of magnetic Co0.1Mg0.7Cu0.2Fe2O4 nanoparticles for MB dominated by chemisorption and was a multilayer adsorption process. The adsorption isotherm experiments revealed a remarkable maximum adsorption capacity of methyl blue, reaching 2255.7 mg/g, within the concentration range of MB from 400 to 4000 mg/L. The thermodynamic analysis indicated the spontaneity of the exothermic adsorption process. The studies on the effect of pH also led to satisfying results; while the residual adsorption capacity could still remain 91.2% initial adsorbance after 12 times recycle. The outstanding recycling ability, resistance to ionic strength, and pH resistance distinguished the magnetic Co0.1Mg0.7Cu0.2Fe2O4 nanoparticles among vast adsorbents. These results highlight the significant potential of these nanoparticles for treating dye wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Industrial waste effluent is harmful and hazardous for living organism, environment, and mankind through food web and food chain. This study focused on the degradative removal of organic dyes by novel green method–synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), where these synthesized nanoparticles were further coated on activated carbon which was prepared by Moringa oleifera seed pods by green approach to modify the surface and enhance its photocatalytic capacity and dye removal efficiency. These AgNPs were characterized through X-ray diffraction (XRD), ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectrophotometry, scanning electron microscopy (SEM-EDX), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The nanoparticles were used for the photodegradation of methyl blue (MB) and methyl orange (MO) from waste effluent and showed excellent degradation efficiency. Detailed characterization of UV spectrophotometry and XRD techniques confirmed that the AgNP particle size synthesized through green approach is found in the ranges of 200 to 305 nm. Experimental results reveal that silver nanoparticles (AgNPs/AC) had the highest dye degradation removal efficiency for methyl blue and methyl orange and achieved 405 mg/g and 346 mg/g removal capacities accountable to 90% and 77% photodegradation, respectively, in a short period of time of 30 min as compared to previous reported catalysts. The mechanism of adsorption was finest to be defined by the Langmuir isotherm tailed by pseudo-second-order kinetic. The t/qt versus t plot for pseudo-second-order kinetics yielded a high-regression coefficient (R2 = 0.96) that expressed the adsorbate sorption tailed by the pseudo-second-order kinetic. Residual plots for response, interaction plot for response, and contour plots were used to find the optimum point. Moreover, based on the experimental findings, a degradation mechanism was proposed for the photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes with AgNPs/AC catalyst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Ettringite is a hydrous calcium aluminum sulfate mineral present in cement. In this study, ettringite was synthesized via co-precipitation to remove methyl blue, dichromate, and copper ions from solutions with various pH values. The synthesized ettringite was characterized using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectrometry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, zeta potential analysis, and the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller method. Equilibrium adsorption experiments were performed using methyl blue and dichromate at pH values ranging from 5 to 11. To avoid precipitation, equilibrium adsorption experiments were performed on copper ions in solutions with pH values of 3, 4, and 5. The adsorption kinetics experiments for each contaminant were performed at pH 5. The results showed that ettringite was successfully synthesized, and calcite might have precipitated during the synthesis process. The point of zero charge was at pH 8.6. The maximum adsorption capacities for methyl blue, dichromate, and copper ions at pH 5 were 406, 321, and 365 mg/g, respectively. The adsorption kinetics fitted the pseudo-second-order model well. The properties of the contaminants affect their equilibrium and rate constants. Ion exchange is regarded as the primary adsorption mechanism, whereas the other mechanisms include complexation, hydrogen bonding, surface precipitation, π-interaction, and van der Waals forces. This study revealed a new adsorbent, ettringite, for the removal of contaminants from wastewater, which is a promising alternative adsorbent that can be used under specific conditions.

Ettringite is a hydrous calcium aluminum sulfate mineral present in cement. In this study, ettringite was synthesized via co-precipitation to remove methyl blue, dichromate, and copper ions from solutions with various pH values. The synthesized ettringite was characterized using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectrometry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, zeta potential analysis, and the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller method. Equilibrium adsorption experiments were performed using methyl blue and dichromate at pH values ranging from 5 to 11. To avoid precipitation, equilibrium adsorption experiments were performed on copper ions in solutions with pH values of 3, 4, and 5. The adsorption kinetics experiments for each contaminant were performed at pH 5. The results showed that ettringite was successfully synthesized, and calcite might have precipitated during the synthesis process. The point of zero charge was at pH 8.6. The maximum adsorption capacities for methyl blue, dichromate, and copper ions at pH 5 were 406, 321, and 365 mg/g, respectively. The adsorption kinetics fitted the pseudo-second-order model well. The properties of the contaminants affect their equilibrium and rate constants. Ion exchange is regarded as the primary adsorption mechanism, whereas the other mechanisms include complexation, hydrogen bonding, surface precipitation, π-interaction, and van der Waals forces. This study revealed a new adsorbent, ettringite, for the removal of contaminants from wastewater, which is a promising alternative adsorbent that can be used under specific conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetic MgxCu(1-x)Fe2O4 nanoparticles were prepared by the rapid combustion method, and characterized by TEM, VSM and XRD techniques. For larger specific surface area and larger adsorption capacity, magnetic Mg0.5Cu0.5Fe2O4 nanoparticles calcined at 400 ºC for 2 h with an average particle size of 32.3 nm were employed to remove methyl blue (MB), and the adsorption mechanism of MB onto Mg0.5Cu0.5Fe2O4 nanoparticles was investigated. The correlation coefficient (R2) values of the second-order kinetic model and Freundlich model for fitting the adsorption data of MB onto Mg0.5Cu0.5Fe2O4 nanoparticles reached more than 0.99, which suggested that the adsorption of MB onto Mg0.5Cu0.5Fe2O4 nanoparticles belonged to the chemical multilayer adsorption mechanism. When pH ≥ 3, the adsorption capacity reached maximum of 159 mg/g. However, when pH < 3, the adsorption capacity kept a minor value, which indicated that the adsorption capacity could be controlled by changing pH value. After 12 cycles, the adsorption capacities of the Mg0.5Cu0.5Fe2O4 nanoparticles could still reach 83% of the first adsorption capacity, revealing that the magnetic Mg0.5Cu0.5Fe2O4 nanoparticles had large adsorption capacity and reuse ability, and the equilibrium time of adsorption was about 80 min, indicating that Mg0.5Cu0.5Fe2O4 nanoparticles had practical application potential. Magnetic Mg0.5Cu0.5Fe2O4 nanoparticles were prepared via a rapid combustion process with anhydrous ethanol as solvent and fuel and characterized, and the adsorption mechanism of MB onto magnetic Mg0.5Cu0.5Fe2O4 nanoparticles were revealed using MB as template. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Today, increasing dyes pollution is of great importance for life. Leaving the dyes used in industries such as textiles without being discharged pollutes other water sources. In order to prevent this, different methods are used in the literature. In this study, SrAl2B2O7, a borate metal, was used to remove methyl blue (MB), an anionic dye, by batch adsorption method. Strontium aluminoborate (SrAl2B2O7) was prepared using a solution combustion method at 950 °C for 4 h in air. The prepared adsorbent was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The particle morphology of the adsorbent was investigated using scanning electron microscope (SEM). By using N2 adsorption–desorption, the Brunnauer, Emmet, and Teller (BET) specific surface area was found to be 1.9578 m2 g−1. The surface charge of the dye-adsorbed SrAl2B2O7 was determined based on zeta-potential measurements. Langmuir (R2=0.9897), Freundlich (R2=0.985), Dubinin & Radushkevic (R2=0.976), Scatchard (R2=0.881), Temkin & Pyzhev (R2=0.978) isotherms were calculated in the study. SrAl2B2O7 showed good adsorption performance for methyl blue (MB) with maximum adsorption capacities of 29.069 mg g−1 (Langmuir). Adsorption processes were also studied in detail. Thermodynamic and kinetic models; pseudo-first-order (R2=0.415), pseudo-second-order (R2=0.999), Elovich (R2=0.968) showed that adsorption using SrAl2B2O7 in MB removal is endothermic and pseudo-second order. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractIn the study, the removal of dye (methyl blue) from aqueous solutions by batch/agitation adsorption method was investigated using Pinus brutia (PB). For this purpose, first, PB wood was collected and made into wood chips (PB), and then Pinus brutia biochar (PBB) was made. The PBB was modified to gain nano-magnetic properties. The biochar structure was characterized by FT-IR. PBB and nM-PBB were used for the removal of MB dye. The adsorbent amount, temperature, pH, time and dye concentration were investigated in the adsorption process with adsorption isotherms, kinetics and thermodynamics to estimate their MB removal efficiency. Sorption equilibrium for MB dye was reached by nM-PBB within 60 min and adsorption efficiency up to 99.007% was reached. While the adsorption kinetics followed a pseudo-second-order kinetic model, the Langmuir isotherm model, with a maximum adsorption capacity of 107.527 mg/g (nM-PBB), showed homogeneous physiochemical adsorption. The efficiency was found to be a spontaneous endothermic reaction. It can be suggested that nM-PBB can be used to remove MB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, fluorine-doped SnO2-based dimensionally stable anode (DSA) types were fabricated as electrocatalytic materials to degrade methylene blue (MB) in water. The materials were obtained by using a modified Pechini method. The F-doping in anodes improved the electrocatalytic properties, which were reflected by the decrease in the Tafel slope (from 820 to 338 mVdec−1) and during the MB degradation process. A ~ 98% degradation was achieved on the F-doped anode with Cl− ions in the reaction media. The Cl− addition improved the degradation kinetics (kPSO = 0.025 min−1), and the MB degradation pathway was corroborated through liquid chromatography coupled with mass detection. The doped anode showed more than 98% of MB mineralization for 5 cycles. The obtained anodes are low cost and effective electrocatalytic materials for wastewater treatment applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

EDTA encapsulated CdS spherical nanocrystals have been prepared via hydrothermal approach at three different reaction times 16 h, 20 h, and 24 h. The XRD investigation confirms the formation of cubic and hexagonal mixed phase of CdS while HRSEM image validates the synthesis of spherical nanocrystals. The EDX spectra confirm the purity of the samples. The optical properties have been studied using UV–Vis and photoluminescence spectroscopic techniques. The PL spectrum at 20 h reaction time shows utmost intensity. The vibrational properties of the synthesized CdS samples have been investigated using FTIR technique in the range of 500 – 4000 cm−1. The photocatalytic properties of EDTA@CdS spherical nanocrystals to degrade methyl blue dye have been studied under sunlight.

Copyright of Acta Biologica Slovenica is the property of Drustvo Biologov Slovenije and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The study examines the impact of caffeine consumption during prepubertal development and recovery on the contractile function of the adult corpus cavernosum in Wistar rats. Prepubertal male rats consumed distilled water (vehicle) and caffeine (5 mg/kg). A third group consumed caffeine and was allowed a period of recovery. Cavernosa tissues were excised at adulthood, and their contractile functions in the presence of Ca2+, K+, indomethacin, glibenclamide, methyl blue, L-NAME, and sodium nitroprusside were assessed. K+-induced increase in contraction in the caffeine-treated group was similar to that in the recovery group. Ca2+ ions, however, increased contraction significantly in the caffeine group compared to the recovery group. Acetylcholine-mediated relaxation (%) was significantly higher in the recovery compared to the caffeine treated after incubation with indomethacin and methyl blue. Acetylcholine-mediated relaxation, however, was higher in caffeine as compared to the recovery group after incubation with glibenclamide and L-NAME. Relaxation in the presence of sodium nitroprusside was significantly reduced in recovery than in the caffeine-treated group. Prepubertal caffeine intake had an erectogenic effect on the cavernous tissues in the presence of glibenclamide, nifedipine, and L-NAME. Inhibitors of prostacyclin (indomethacin) and cGMP (methyl blue) militate caffeine-induced relaxation. Effects were reversed after recovery.

Chitosan-based composites with considerable interest have great significance in photocatalytic and antibacterial applications. Chitosan itself is a special accepted adsorbent for the removal of organic pollutants due to presence of energetic amino and hydroxyl groups. The positive charge of amino group interacts electrostatically with surface of shell membrane to block enzyme actions. In this regard, we have synthesized chitosan supported nickel oxide/zinc oxide composite (Chitosan-NiO/ZnO) via alcohothermal process. The X-ray diffraction pattern confirmed the NiO/ZnO composite which contained cubical NiO and hexagonal ZnO structure. FTIR spectrum demonstrated the presence of vibrational mode of Zn-O and Ni-O in the composite. The UV-vis spectroscopy showed the reduction in optical band gap of Chitosan-NiO/ZnO composite from 2.70 to 2.32 eV as compared to NiO/ZnO. Moreover, Chitosan-NiO/ZnO composite showed 91.8% degradation of methyl blue (MB) dye in 70 min whereas NiO/ZnO showed 90.8% in 100 min. This improvement in photocatalytic behavior is mainly credited to porous structure of Chitosan-NiO/ZnO which helped to provide large surface area and more active sites. Furthermore, addition of chitosan also provided solid support on the surface of composite to enhance the electron/hole pairs recombination. The Chitosan-NiO/ZnO composite also showed high recyclability in the photocatalytic efficiency with loss of only 3% after five runs. Moreover, Chitosan-NiO/ZnO also showed improved antibacterial activity against Gram-negative bacteria (E. coli) and Gram-positive bacteria (S. aureus), which is relatively higher than that of NiO/ZnO composite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Through a powerful and modest closed system Microwave hydrothermal process, a methodological analysis is made in the rational synthesis of the reduced graphene oxide-induced p-AgO/n-MoO3 (RGAM) heterostructures. These have strong p-n junction heterostructures with considerable electron-hole recombination functioning as solar catalysts. The enhanced photocatalytic activity through the plasmonic step scheme (S-scheme mechanism) describes the effective charge recombination process. The energy band positions, bandgap, and work function are determined to understand the Fermi level shifts; this describes the S-scheme mechanism by UPS analysis which assessed an electron transfer between AgO and MoO3, yielding work function values of 6.34 eV and 6.62eV, respectively. This photocatalytic activity aids in dye removal by 94.22%, and heavy metals such as chromium (Cr) are eliminated by the surface action of sunlight on the produced material during solar irradiation. Electrochemical studies such as photocurrent response, cyclic voltammogram, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy for RGAM heterostructures were also carried out. The study helps to broaden the search for and development of new hybrid carbon composites for electrochemical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid growth in population and industrialization has given rise to serious environmental issues, especially the water pollution. Photocatalysis with the assist of semiconductor photocatalysts has been considered as an advanced oxidation technique for degrading a variety of pollutants under solar irradiation. In this work, we have fabricated SnO2-TiO2 heterostructures with different ordered layers of SnO2 and TiO2 via the sol–gel dip-coating technique and utilized in photocatalysis for degradation of methyl blue dye under UV irradiation. The influence of the layer's position on SnO2 and TiO2 properties is investigated via the various techniques. The grazing incidence X-ray diffraction (GIXRD) analysis reveals that the as-prepared films exhibit pure anatase TiO2 and kesterite SnO2 phases. The 2SnO2/2TiO2 heterostructure exhibit the maximum crystallite size and smallest deviation from the ideal structure. Scanning electron microscopy cross-section images manifest good adhesion of the layers to each other and to the substrate. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy reveals the characteristic vibration modes of SnO2 and TiO2 phases. UV–visible spectroscopy measurements indicate that all films exhibit high transparency (T = 80%) and the SnO2 film reveals a direct band gap of 3.6 eV, while the TiO2 film exhibits an indirect band gap of 2.9 eV. The optimal 2SnO2/2TiO2 heterostructure film revealed best photocatalytic degradation performance and the reaction rate constant for methylene blue solution under UV irradiation. This work will trigger the development of highly efficient heterostructure photocatalysts for environmental remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Environmental Science & Technology (10036504) is the property of Editorial Board of Environmental Science & Technology and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

BaFe12O19 (BaM) hexagonal ferrite was synthesised through the co-precipitation route. The thermal decomposition behaviour of co-precipitated powder was studied by DSC-TG. XRD and Raman analysis confirmed the formation of pure BaM phase at 900°C calcination temperature. Morphological analysis was done using FESEM. The magnetic behaviour of BaM was analysed using a vibrating sample magnetometer. The saturation magnetisation (Ms) of 67.7 emu g−1 and coercivity of 5106 Oe was observed in BaM. BaM ferrite with a surface area of 8.2 m2 g−1 was used for the adsorption of methyl blue (MB) and sunlight-induced photodegradation. The optical band gap of the ferrite was ~2.9 eV. The adsorption process followed the pseudo-second-order model and satisfied Langmuir adsorption isotherm. BaM particles showed the maximum Langmuir saturation adsorption ability of 223.86 mg g−1 at an initial MB solution pH of 5.7. The free energy and enthalpy changes of the adsorption confirmed the spontaneous and exothermic nature of the process. About 73% of degradation of MB was found within 3 h of sunlight-induced photocatalytic degradation. Reproduced BaM powder showed high adsorption and degradation efficiency even after five cycles. All these results suggest that BaM particles can be used as a promising material for the adsorption and degradation of MB in wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several methods have been used for wastewater processing. Electrochemical oxidation is considered a potent technique for removing dyes from wastewater. In this study, methyl blue (MB) dye was successfully removed from contaminated wastewater using a stainless-steel rotating cylinder, and five factors were studied, including NaCl concentration, applied current, MB concentration, rotating cylinder speed and time. The response surface methodology with rotatable central composite design and half factorial method was used for the experimental design of this work and for deriving the mathematical model as well as the optimum conditions for this investigation, which included 95.0455 mg/L MB, 230 mA applied current, a rotation rate of 35 rpm, and 0.225 mg/L NaCl and 37.44 min time of reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CaFe2O4 nanoparticles were prepared successfully and characterized by SEM, TEM, XRD and VSM. The effects of ethanol dosage, calcination temperature, heating rate and calcination time on CaFe2O4 nanoparticles were investigated via the ethanol-assisted combustion process. To obtain the maximum adsorption capacity, CaFe2O4 nanoparticles calcined at 400 °C in 40 mL anhydrous ethanol with the heating rate at 3 °C/min for 2 h were selected to adsorb methyl blue (MB). The adsorption process of MB onto CaFe2O4 nanoparticles conformed to the pseudo-second-order kinetics model and the Temkin isotherm model, indicating that the process was a mixture of monolayer and multilayer chemisorption. When pH was 3, the adsorption capacity of MB onto CaFe2O4 nanoparticles was the largest, and after 6 cycles, the adsorption efficiency of CaFe2O4 nanoparticles could still reach 65% of the first time, indicating good regeneration performance. Magnetic CaFe2O4 nanoparticles were prepared by the ethanol-assisted combustion method and characterized, and the adsorption mechanism of MB on magnetic CaFe2O4 nanoparticles were revealed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The efficient elimination of lead (II) and methyl blue from aqueous media was a critical problem for humans. The removal of dyes and heavy metals, especially methylene blue and lead, from wastewater is essential for human health and the environment, and utilizing a suitable adsorbent to attain this goal is highly desirable. In the present study first time, chitosan biopolymer was functionalized using Two Dimensional Metal-Organic Frameworks (Ni 3 (HITP) 2) and MXene for efficient, rapid, and selective removal of lead (II) and Methyl blue. To obtain an adsorbent (Ni 3 (HITP) 2 /MXene/CS), 1 g of chitosan (biopolymer) and Metal-Organic Frameworks were added in MXene dark-colored suspension and ultrasonically dispersed for 25 min. The batch sorption was carried out, and sorption behavior was analyzed. Batch sorption procedures were conducted to explore the sorption of Pb2+ and MB by Ni 3 (HITP) 2 /MXene/CS composite in 25 mL of aqueous solutions. The adsorbent utilized in the present experiments was 10 mg. The effect of the initial concentration of Pb2+ and MB was explored in the range of 10–400 mg L−1. Composite (Ni 3 (HITP) 2 /MXene/CS) had excellent sorption performance in the range of pH= 3–6 for lead (II) and pH= 2–9 for methyl blue. The maximum adsorption capacity for lead (II) was 448.93 mg g− 1 at 298 K, 400.59 mg g− 1 at 308 K, and 305.80 mg g− 1 at 318 K. In contrast, the maximum sorption capability for methyl blue was 424.99 mg g− 1 at 298 K, 354.03 mg g− 1 at 308 K, and 251.78 mg g− 1 at 318 K. The sorption of lead (II) and methyl blue on Ni 3 (HITP) 2 /MXene/CS composite conformed to pseudo-second-order kinetic and Langmuir model. These outcomes verified that Ni 3 (HITP) 2 /MXene/CS composite was selectivity efficient, and quick removal of Methylene blue and lead from wastewater, which is of practical importance. [Display omitted] • MXene and CS introduced OH-, F-, NH, and S in the MOFs that increased the uptake of Pb2+, and MB. • The prepared composite was characterized by SEM, RAMAN, XRD, EDX, XPS, and TEM. • After five reusability experiments, the sorption capacities were still high. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gallium oxide (Ga2O2) nanoparticles (NPs) were fabricated using chemical method. We looked at how two distinct graphene concentrations in a gallium oxide-graphene (Ga2O2/graphene) heterostructure nanocomposite affected the photocatalytic degradation of the methyl blue dye. Raman spectroscopy was used to evaluate some of the prepared Ga2O2 NPs' physical characteristics. On the basis of interactions between Ga2O2 and graphene, the effect was examined. Ga2O2 included the laser-induced graphene. The production of disordered graphene and the phase of oxides and graphene were both validated by Raman spectra. Ga2O2 was used to examine the effects of graphene content at 5 and 10% wt. The results of the photocatalysis measurements showed an improvement, but a 10% addition of graphene led to a remarkable improvement. The results indicated that the photocatalytic application of the binary phase of Ga2O2/graphene toward the methyl blue decomposition is promising. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polydopamine‐coated tungsten oxide (PDA@WO3) nanomaterial is synthesized by the polymerization of dopamine around the surface of WO3 to form the perfect yolk‐shell structures, and the optoelectronic properties and photocatalytic performance in the wide pH range are studied. After coating of PDA around the WO3 surface, as‐obtained PDA@WO3 possesses better light absorption, lower band gap, stronger photocurrent response, and lower resistance than pristine WO3. As a result, the improved photocatalytic ability of PDA@WO3 nanocomposites, by optimizing the amount of dopamine, is achieved. Compared with pristine WO3, PDA@WO3 exhibits better photocatalytic activity, and the degradation rate of methyl blue reaches 80.2 % (pH=5.4) and 94.5 % (pH=7.2) after 150 min. Combined band energy with trapping experiments of the active substance, photocatalytic activity and degradation mechanism are discussed. Originated from the π electron conjugation system of PDA and yolk‐shell structure of PDA@WO3, the mobility of photogenerated electrons increase and the recombination of electrons‐holes reduce that result in improvement of the photocatalytic performance of pristine WO3, implying surface‐modified metal oxide with yolk‐shell is a potential photocatalytic material for degradation in wide pH range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on analyzing the poling effect of BaBi4Ti4O15 (BBT) on the basis of photo and piezo‐catalysis performance. BBT powder is prepared via a solid state reaction followed by calcination at 950 °C for 4 h. BBT is characterized by an X‐ray diffractometer, scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The optical bandgap of BBT is evaluated with the help of Tauc's plot and found to be 3.29 eV, which comes in the photon energy range of ultra‐violet radiation. BBT powder is poled by using Corona poling in the presence of 2 kV mm−1 of electric field. An aqueous solution of methyl blue (MB) dye in the presence of UV radiation is used to evaluate the photo/piezocatalysis performance. Photocatalysis, piezocatalysis, and photo–piezo catalysis degradation efficiencies of poled and unpoled BBT powder are tested for 120 min of UV light irradiation. Photo–piezocatalysis shows degradation efficiencies of 62% and 40% for poled and unpoled BBT powder, respectively. Poling of BBT powder shows significant enhancement in degradation performance of MB dye in aqueous solution. Scavenger tests are also performed to identify reactive species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a novel Z-scheme heterojunction of ZIF67/WO3 nanocomposite is successfully prepared via immobilizing WO3 on the MOFs ZIF67 and confirmed by measuring XRD, FT-IR spectroscopy, XPS, SEM, TEM, and EDS. UV–vis and Mott-Schottky measurements. The photocatalytic activity of the as-prepared ZIF67/WO3 is evaluated by degrading methylene blue (MB) solution under simulated visible light irradiation. Obviously, the optimal ZIF67/WO3-0.3 (designated as 0.3 g addition of WO3) delivers significant photocatalytic degradation exceeding 90% toward MB within 120 min, which is about 3.0 and 4.2 times higher than those of pure ZIF67 (30.0%) and WO3 (21.2%). With the addition of 0.02 g ZIF67/WO3-0.3 composite, a total volume of 50 mL of MB at 10 mg/L was thoroughly degraded in 120 min with an apparent rate constant of 0.0184 min−1. Reactive species scavenging experiments indicated that the holes (h+) and hydroxyl radical (·OH) are mainly responsible for MB degradation. Moreover, the probable reaction mechanism is elucidated by detecting the intermediates by performing LC–MS measurements. The excellent photocatalytic performance of the ZIF67/WO3 is predominantly determined by the structural properties of the composite and the Z-scheme charge transfer pathway, which promote the efficient separation of photogenerated carriers and facilitate the transfer of photogenerated electrons to active sites. Therefore, it is a promising strategy for immobilizing the WO3 on MOFs for constructing Z-scheme heterojunction to degrade the refractory organic dyes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Remediation of water pollution persists as major concern for scientists and industry. Various ceramic based nanomaterials have been used in efficient photocatalytic degradation of different industrial dyes. However, the major factors that restrict efficacy of these systems are requirement of UV source for activating dye degradation process, prolonged time for degradation and lower efficiency. This paves way to development of alternative material systems that can resolve above problems by not only ensuring maximum dye degradation in minimum time in presence of visible light but also reusability in several cycles. In this work, we report visible light driven photocatalytic degradation of methyl blue (MB) using Sn-doped bismuth ferrite (BFO) nanoparticles. Different concentrations (0, 1%, 1.5%, 2%) of Sn-doped BFO nanoparticles were synthesized using facile sol-gel methods. It was observed that 1.5% Sn-doped BFO nanoparticle exhibits highest photocatalytic activity towards MB degradation compared with pure and other doped BFO nanoparticles. 1.5% Sn-doped BFO nanoparticle delineates 70% dye degradation capability within 10 min of irradiation under visible light. 1.5% Sn-doped sample shows 99% degradation capability within 2 h of visible light irradiation while pristine BFO nanoparticles can degrade only 20% under identical conditions. Additionally, 1.5% Sn-doped BFO nanoparticles are also capable of degrading RhB, another important contaminant. The 1.5% Sn-doped BFO nanoparticle could be a promising photocatalyst for efficient degradation of industrial effluents having various dyes. The efficient dye degradation of 1.5% Sn doped BFO nanoparticle has been explained in terms of increased density of surface active sites evident from bulk structural analyses and greater probability of generation of electron-hole pairs on surface by virtue of reduced band gap. A theoretical modelling of band structure has been done to identify surface .OH ions as most effective species to promote dye degradation. • Visible light induced methyl blue (MB) degradation using Sn-doped BFO nanoparticles. • 1.5% Sn-doped BFO nanoparticles can degrade 70% MB within 10 min. • Improved dye degradation efficiency by 1.5% Sn-doped BFO nanoparticles is due to increase in electron-hole generation rate because of reduced band gap. • Increased concentration of surface active sites in BFO due to decrease in unit cell volume by virtue of Sn doping. • Langmuir-Hinshelwood model was used in explaining the kinetics of photo-degradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The MB degradation rate of SSS/PbO 2 electrode remained 86% after 10 cycles. • 95.8% of MB degradation rate was observed under the optimized conditions. • The law of MB degradation catalyzed by SSS/PbO 2 electrode follows the first order kinetics. • The enhanced catalytic activity of SSS/PbO 2 electrode was uncovered by DFT calculations. In this work, Sodium p-styrene sulfonate (SSS)/PbO 2 electrode was successfully prepared and further applied for the electrocatalytic degradation of methyl blue (MB). 95.8 % of methylene blue degradation via PbO 2 electrodes was observed at the optimized conditions (100 mg/L of MB solution, current density of 30 mA·cm−2, pH=5, 180 min). When compared with PbO 2 electrodes, SSS/PbO 2 electrode was found to possess most effective electrocatalytic activity due to its higher oxygen evolution potential, lower charge transfer resistance, and longer service lifetime. When the concentration of SSS increases to 2vt.%, the grain size of PbO 2 decreases from 21.79 nm to 19.42 nm, and the degradation rate of MB was enhanced for 5 %. Besides, the degradation rate of SSS/PbO 2 electrode remained 86 % after 10 cycles, indicating that the stability and catalytic activity of the electrode were improved when the PbO 2 was decorated by SSS. Moreover, the law of degradation of MB catalyzed by SSS/PbO 2 electrode follows the first order kinetics. Furthermore, the energy consumption and mineralization efficiency of the SSS/PbO 2 electrode were 68.73 kWh· L-1 and 4.39 %, respectively. Finally, a possible mechanism was proposed, which was further uncovered by DFT calculations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This study focuses on analyzing the poling effect of BaBi4Ti4O15 (BBT) on the basis of photo and piezo‐catalysis performance. BBT powder is prepared via a solid state reaction followed by calcination at 950 °C for 4 h. BBT is characterized by an X‐ray diffractometer, scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The optical bandgap of BBT is evaluated with the help of Tauc's plot and found to be 3.29 eV, which comes in the photon energy range of ultra‐violet radiation. BBT powder is poled by using Corona poling in the presence of 2 kV mm−1 of electric field. An aqueous solution of methyl blue (MB) dye in the presence of UV radiation is used to evaluate the photo/piezocatalysis performance. Photocatalysis, piezocatalysis, and photo–piezo catalysis degradation efficiencies of poled and unpoled BBT powder are tested for 120 min of UV light irradiation. Photo–piezocatalysis shows degradation efficiencies of 62% and 40% for poled and unpoled BBT powder, respectively. Poling of BBT powder shows significant enhancement in degradation performance of MB dye in aqueous solution. Scavenger tests are also performed to identify reactive species.

In the present study, the photocatalytic activity of carbon nanoparticles (CNPs) in the degradation of methylene blue (MB) using sunlight was analyzed. The CNPs were synthesized by solvent-assisted hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) and were characterized by various spectroscopic techniques: TEM and SEM microscopy, UV-Vis, FTIR, Fluorescence, and XPS. By changing the conditions of the HTC process, the surface chemistry of CNPs was functionalized, thus a great quantity of oxygenated functional groups was generated, which eventually influenced the photocatalytic process. Next, tests were carried out with different types of nanoparticles, varying the concentration of the dye and the type of light used in the irradiation. As a result of this, more than 93% of MB degradation was achieved in 20 min of irradiation using sunlight. This result is promising since it has not been achieved by other nanomaterial. This research can be a potential starting point for the development of new solar photocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spinel magnesium aluminate (MgAl2O4) anchored reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanocomposite (MgAl2O4-rGO) was synthesized through a facile chemical precipitation route for augmented photocatalytic behavior. XRD, SEM, and FTIR were done to investigate the structure, morphology, and functional groups of the spinel MgAl2O4-rGO nanocomposite. UV–vis spectroscopy showed a reduction in the bandgap from 3.02 to 2.82 eV. MgAl2O4-rGO proved itself a better photocatalyst with photocatalytic efficiency (99.9%) by degrading Methyl Blue (MB) in 70 min under natural sunlight irradiation. Moreover, it demonstrated excellent cyclic stability and reusability (97%) even after six cycles. The augmentation in photocatalytic properties is mainly attributed to rGO which helped to enhance the surface area, reduced electron–hole recombination, and provided more active sites. In the future, spinel MgAl2O4-rGO nanocomposite may be an auspicious candidate for the exclusion of waste-water pollutants in industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The harm and treatment of methyl blue (MB) were described, and the necessity for the removal of MB by magnetic nanomaterials was explained. Magnetic Ni–Mg–Co ferrites were prepared by the rapid combustion approach of an active nitrate solution and characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR), energy dispersive spectroscopy, and vibrating sample magnetometer. Magnetic Ni0.1Mg0.7Co0.2Fe2O4 nanoparticles prepared at 400°C with the saturation magnetization of 19.7 emu g−1 and the average diameter of about 15.2 nm were used to adsorb MB from the aqueous medium. The Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller (BET) analysis showed that the specific surface area was 143.17 m2 g−1 and the average pore size was 9.44 nm. The adsorption mechanism of MB onto magnetic Ni0.1Mg0.7Co0.2Fe2O4 nanoparticles was studied, and the results revealed that the adsorption properties conformed the pseudo‐second‐order kinetics model due to the square deviation values (R2 > 0.98), and Temkin model could describe the adsorption state of MB onto Ni0.1Mg0.7Co0.2Fe2O4 nanoparticles, which suggested that the adsorption of MB onto Ni0.1Mg0.7Co0.2Fe2O4 nanoparticles was monolayer–multilayer hybrid chemisorption mechanism. When the pH value exceeded 3, the adsorbance reached large value; while, the adsorbance was 97.6% of the initial adsorption value for seven cycles. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry curves of MB adsorbed onto the nanoparticles before and after the adsorption were determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, WS2/Zn0.5Cd0.5S sheet-like nano-heterostructure photocatalysts were prepared by coprecipitation-hydrothermal method. The composition of the materials was characterized by XRD, and the morphology and size of the photocatalysts were observed by SEM and TEM. The absorption band edge, photo-generated carrier recombination efficiency and interface electron transfer rate of the composite were studied by UV–Vis DRS, PL and EIS methods. The degradation experiments showed that the decolorization rate of 9%-WS2/Zn0.5Cd0.5S composites to methylene blue (MB)reached 92.6% at 240 min. The photocatalytic degradation activity of WS2/Zn0.5Cd0.5S is higher than that of WS2 and Zn0.5Cd0.5S. The photocatalytic mechanism of MB degradation by WS2/Zn0.5Cd0.5S was revealed based on energy band position, PL analysis and trapping agent analysis. In addition, the photocatalyst not only has good photocatalytic performance, but also has good stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, the photocatalytic activity of carbon nanoparticles (CNPs) in the degradation of methylene blue (MB) using sunlight was analyzed. The CNPs were synthesized by solvent-assisted hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) and were characterized by various spectroscopic techniques: TEM and SEM microscopy, UV-Vis, FTIR, Fluorescence, and XPS. By changing the conditions of the HTC process, the surface chemistry of CNPs was functionalized, thus a great quantity of oxygenated functional groups was generated, which eventually influenced the photocatalytic process. Next, tests were carried out with different types of nanoparticles, varying the concentration of the dye and the type of light used in the irradiation. As a result of this, more than 93% of MB degradation was achieved in 20 min of irradiation using sunlight. This result is promising since it has not been achieved by other nanomaterial. This research can be a potential starting point for the development of new solar photocatalysts.

ZnCo-ZIFs was successfully synthesized by a solvothermal method in methanol solvent at room conditions and determined physical–chemical properties by a series of characterization techniques. The catalytic activity of ZnCo-ZIFs on Methyl Blue (MB) degradation in the presence of peroxymonosulfate (PMS) was examined by variation of the effective factors including ZnCo-ZIFs dosage, mass ratio of ZnCo-ZIFs:PMS, temperature, reaction time and initial MB concentration. The result showed that MB was mostly degraded at initial MB concentration of 50 mg L−1 with catalyst dosage of 50 mg L−1 and ZnCo-ZIFs:PMS ratio of 1:3 at room temperature within 20 min of reaction. The main mechanism for dye degradation was the Fenton-like reaction via major active species SO4·‾ (sulfate free radical) generated from PMS by Co2+ metal centers in the catalyst frameworks. The ZnCo-ZIFs showed highly efficient catalytic activity and stability compared to both homogeneous (cobalt salt, zinc salt and 2-methylimidazole) and heterogeneous (ZIF-67, ZIF-8, zeolite ZMS-5 and activated carbon) catalysts. The recyclability of the catalyst also showed an impressive result with 93.6% at the 5th recycle. To the best of our knowledge, ZnCo-ZIFs associated with PMS was first reported as a novel Fenton-like heterogeneous catalyst for MB degradation in water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study reports the effects of titanium and lanthanum doping on the structural, morphological, electrical, optical and photocatalytic properties of CaFe2O4 spinel ferrites. The ceramic powders were prepared by sol–gel method. The X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed well-crystallized single-phase orthorhombic structure for all the compositions. The related parameters such as average particle size, density and lattice strain were calculated. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of the samples revealed no significant change in morphology with dopant concentration. The dielectric properties of synthesized ferrites materials were carried out at room temperature. The doped ferrites were found to exhibit high dielectric constant, low loss and enhanced conductivity. The Nyquist plot demonstrated the non-Debye behaviour of the samples. The photocatalytic efficiency was assessed using UV–Vis spectroscopy, which elucidated the narrow energy bandgap of the prepared samples. The photoluminescence study favoured the photocatalytic activity of the doped ferrites. The photocatalytic performance of the prepared samples was demonstrated in the effective degradation of methyl blue under visible-light irradiation. Thus, the (Ti, La)-doped CaFe2O4 ferrites prove to be visible-light photocatalysts exhibiting high efficiency in pollutant degradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work reports the design and characterization of functional photocatalytic coatings based on the combination of two different deposition techniques. In a first step, a poly(acrylic acid) + β-Cyclodextrin (denoted as PAA+ β-CD) electrospun fiber mat was deposited by using the electrospinning technique followed by a thermal treatment in order to provide an enhancement in the resultant adhesion and mechanical resistance. In a second step, a layer-by-layer (LbL) assembly process was performed in order to immobilize the metal oxide particles onto the previously electrospun fiber mat. In this context, titanium dioxide (TiO2) was used as the main photocatalytic element, acting as the cationic element in the multilayer LbL structure. In addition, two different metal oxides, such as tungsten oxide (WO3) and iron oxide (Fe2O3), were added into PAA anionic polyelectrolyte solution with the objective of optimizing the photocatalytic efficiency of the coating. All of the coatings were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) images, showing an increase in the original fiber diameter and a decrease in roughness of the mats because of the LbL second step. The variation in the wettability properties from a superhydrophilic surface to a less wettable surface as a function of the incorporation of the metal oxides was also observed by means of water contact angle (WCA) measurements. With the aim of analyzing the photocatalytic efficiency of the samples, degradation of methyl blue (MB) azo-dye was studied, showing an almost complete discoloration of the dye in the irradiated area. This study reports a novel combination method of two deposition techniques in order to obtain a functional, homogeneous and efficient photocatalytic coating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photocatalysts have gotten much attention because of the growing need to protect the environment, and metal-doped zinc ferrite heterojunctions are an exciting system to look into. The current study involves synthesizing aluminum-doped zinc ferrite (Al@ZF) nanoparticles (NPs) and nanocomposites of Al@ZF with S@g-C 3 N 4 via a hydrothermal method and then evaluating their photocatalytic activity. Al@ZF NPs were prepared by varying the percentage of aluminum (0.5, 1, 3, 5, 7 and 9 wt %). Photocatalytic measurements were carried out employing methylene blue (MB) as the model dye. The Al@ZF NPs with 1 % concentration showed the best photocatalytic capability among all of them. Correspondingly, the S@g-C 3 N 4 /Al@ZF nanocomposites (NCs) were made by varying the percentage of S@g-C 3 N 4 (10, 30, 50 and 70 wt %) with the 1 % Al@ZF NPs. Then, photocatalytic working measurements of the S@g-C 3 N 4 /Al@ZF NCs proved that the 50 % S@g-C 3 N 4 /Al@ZF NC showed the highest photocatalytic activity and completely degraded MB within 150 min of light irradiation. To verify the morphological structure of these artificial nanoparticles and nanocomposites, several analytical techniques including XRD, SEM, TEM, BET, FTIR, and XPS were used. The produced photocatalyst's quick degradation kinetics and simplicity in separation may provide new opportunities for the oxidation of persistent organic pollutants. To our best knowledge, no prior report has been made on the synthesized nanocomposite. The proposed modification of Al@ZF using 50 % S@g-C 3 N 4 is effective, less expensive, non-toxic, and highly efficient for scalable wastewater treatment applications. • Synthesis of Al-doped Zn ferrite (Al@ZF) nanocomposite with S@g-C 3 N 4. • Achieved 100 % degradation of MB dye within 150 min. • Reduced charge recombination and increased light absorption were observed in the 50 % S@g-C 3 N 4 /1 % Al@ZF nanocomposite. • Kinetics studies showed the nanocomposite has a rate constant 2.77 times greater than S@g-C 3 N 4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, one-dimensional zinc (Zn)-doped cadmium sulphide (CdS) nanowires were synthesised by a solvothermal method. The Zn doping concentrations were varied from 1 to 5 mol% (ZnxCd1−xS where x = 0.001, 0.003 and 0.005). As-prepared materials were characterised by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy and UV–visible spectroscopy. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) was conducted to measure the charge transfer resistance. The photocatalytic performance of prepared materials was evaluated by the photodegradation of methylene blue (MB) dye. The result showed that 5% Zn-doped CdS is more photoactive as compared to other corresponding doped and undoped CdS. The increase in photocatalytic performance is due to improvement in the charge separation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]