researchers developed a reusable nanocomposite by modifying cobalt zinc ferrite (CZF) with carbon quantum dots (CQDs) to enhance photocatalytic activity under visible light. The study underscores the potential of this nanocomposite in degrading harmful dyes, contributing to environmental remediation efforts.
CQDs-Coated Cobalt Zinc Ferrite Nanocomposite for Photocatalysis:
Environmental Concern: Industrial dye wastewater is a significant pollutant, and traditional treatment methods are often inefficient.
Photocatalysis Technology: Photocatalysis using light energy to degrade pollutants is a promising technology for wastewater treatment.
CQDs as Photocatalysts: Carbon Quantum Dots (CQDs) have unique optical properties and high surface area, making them effective photocatalysts, especially when combined with traditional materials like metal oxides.
Synthesis of CZF@CQDs Nanocomposite:
CZF Nanoparticles: Synthesized using a co-precipitation method with cobalt and zinc chloride in deionized water.
CQDs: Derived from waste mango peels through hydrothermal treatment, purified by dialysis.
Nanocomposite Formation: CQDs were coated onto CZF nanoparticles through in-situ oxidative polymerization, followed by drying.
Characterization:
XRD: Confirmed crystalline structure.
SEM and TEM: Showed uniform CQDs distribution on CZF.
FTIR: Verified the presence of functional groups from both CQDs and CZF.
Photocatalytic Performance:
Achieved 95% degradation of Reactive Blue 22 dye under visible light in 25 minutes.
Efficiency attributed to enhanced light absorption and improved charge separation due to CQDs, reducing electron-hole recombination.
Optimization: Studied the effects of initial dye concentration and catalyst dosage, demonstrating that optimizing these parameters improves photocatalytic efficiency.
Stability and Reusability: The nanocomposite showed good stability and maintained performance over multiple cycles, indicating its potential for real-world applications.
Conclusion and Implications:
The study highlights the successful creation of a CQDs-modified nanocomposite with enhanced visible light photocatalytic activity.
Emphasizes the potential of integrating CQDs with traditional photocatalytic materials for efficient wastewater treatment.
Encourages further research into the mechanisms of enhanced photocatalytic activity and scaling up for industrial use.