Fe_3O_4/ZnO/Si_3N_4 nanocomposite based photocatalyst for the degradation of dyes from aqueous solution

摘要

Highly visible light efficient photocatalyst; ferric oxide/zinc oxide/silicon nitride (Fe3O4/ZnO/Si3N4) nanocomposite has been designed. Its photocatalytic activity has been studied for the degradation of two dyes; sunset yellow and methyl orange from aqueous solution. Results showed high degradation rate of 90 and 96% for sunset yellow and methyl orange, respectively. Scavenging studies indicated the major involvement of (OH)-O-center dot radicals in the degradation process. Reusability study has been conducted for 6 consecutive cycles indicating its appreciable activity even after repetitive cycles. Antimicrobial activity studied against E. Coli and Pseudomonas strains showed an appreciable inhibition zone. (C) 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.