Sonosynthesis of manganese ferrite nanoparticles on the cellulosic fabric and production of colored nanocomposite with magnetic and photocatalytic properties via statistically optimized method

Cellulosic fibers provide a favorable substrate for nucleation and growth of the nanoparticles. Manganese ferrite nanoparticles can serve as catalysts for various purposes. Here, sonosynthesis of manganese ferrite nanoparticles on cotton fabric was carried out through sonochemical processing by using iron chloride and manganese chloride salts at different temperatures and times in alkaline media. Also, the central composite design based on the response surface methodology was used to optimize the production conditions such as temperature and time. The formation of synthesized nanoparticles on cotton was evaluated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and elemental mapping tests. FESEM images confirmed the spherical manganese ferrite nanoparticles with an average size of 48 nm on cotton fabric. The photocatalytic activities, washing and lightfastness, and magnetic, mechanical, and colorimetric properties of the modified fabrics were investigated. The nanocomposites boosted methylene blue photodegradation under sunlight. In addition, the vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) test indicated the paramagnetic nature of the manganese ferrite nanoparticles with a magnetic saturation of 1.32 emu/g. The treated fabrics with the proper magnetic properties are suitable for use in diverse applications such as supercapacitors.