Novel 3D composite for efficient photocatalysis in environmental remediation

Highly porous, self-supported 3D interconnected network-based nanomaterials hold immense promise in revolutionizing the field of catalysis. These materials combine two critical features; a large accessible surface and an overall active surface that leads to substantial catalytic effects. In this study, we developed a novel class of 3D composite material composed of zinc oxide tetrapods (ZOT) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) polymer, specifically designed for photocatalysis. A polymer composite of ZOT with PEG has been synthesized with 2.5 wt.% ZOT powder mixed with a PEG solution forming a 3D electrode. A consistent composite solution was obtained using probe-sonication and its thick layers were deposited on various substrates using the spin coating technique which were subsequently characterized for optical, morphological, and structural properties. The catalytic response of the fabricated 3D composite was evaluated both in solution and thin film forms under UV exposure. The surface-engineered ZOT-PEG composites showed an excellent capability to degrade the methylene blue (MB) dye in different forms under UV and normal light, opening their potential scopes in environmental remediation.