Photocatalytic Degradation of Aqueous Dyes by ZnO/Fe2O3/PEG Based Nanocomposites

Purpose: Dyes are organic compounds, which alter the quality of the water. The present study aims to develop new photocatalytic materials for the oxidation of dyes in the water. Methodology: Mixed nanocomposite material of ZnO /ferric oxide /Polyethylene glycol was synthesized by the solution phase method. The synthesized nanocomposites were characterized by SEM and particle size analyzer to evaluate the surface morphology and particle size determination. Analysis/Results: Aqueous dye solutions of Eriochrome Black T, Methylene Blue, and food color yellow were prepared and investigated for the synthesized nanocomposite material for the photocatalytic action. The present nanocomposite shows superior photocatalytic activity on Eriochrome Black T with photocatalytic activity of 81.6% oxidation of dyes and moderate activity to Food colour Yellow and Methylene Blue. Originality/Value: In the present study new nanocomposite materials were prepared and evaluated for photocatalytic activity, the action of nanocomposite on Eriochrome Black T dye solution, results in promising activity for the colour removal. The synthesized nanocomposite may be useful for the large quantity of color removal in contaminated water. Type of Paper: Experimental.