Sunlight-activated photocatalytic efficiency of novel Zr-CoS-PTh composite for superior wastewater remediation

This research aimed to develop novel Zr-CoS-PTh nanocomposite as photocatalyst for degradation of RhB dye. The Zr-CoS-PTh nanocomposite was synthesized via a hydrothermal method and was characterized using FTIR, XRD, and SEM/EDS. The composite achieved up to 98% dye degradation within 90 minutes under optimized experimental parameter such as pH 7, H₂O₂ concentration of 5 mM, catalyst dosage of 30 mg/100 mL, and dye concentration of 50 ppm. The optimization of the experimental parameters was also studied Response Surface Methodology (RSM). The kinetic analysis showed that 1st order supports the reaction mechanism. Scavenger analysis revealed that hydroxyl radicals, photogenerated holes, and superoxide radicals played pivotal roles in the photocatalytic degradation process.