Advanced electrochemical and photodegradation applications of ethylene glycol-functionalized boron nitride and molybdenum disulfide nanocomposites

Abstract This study investigates the role of ethylene glycol (EG) and two-dimensional materials like boron nitride (BN) and MoS2 for advanced applications. EG enhances the integration and performance of these materials, while EG-functionalized BN combined with MoS2 improves properties. This research investigates the structural, optical and electrochemical properties of EG-BN/MoS2 (MOBN) composites, focusing on their interfacial synergy and functionalization. Characterization techniques such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, UV–visable spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and thermogravimetric analysis confirm the successful incorporation of MoS2 and BN, revealing a hybrid structure that enhances the composites’ stability and properties. The study finds that the MOBN2 exhibits superior thermal stability compared with MOBN1, with a distinct optical transition observed in the absorption spectra. Optical bandgap calculation shows values of 3.69 eV for MOBN2, emphasizing the influence of interlayer spacing and hybridization. Photoluminescence reveals improved optical properties in MOBN2, further confirming enhanced functionalization. Scanning electron microscopy images show a rough clustered surface morphology, while current–voltage curves demonstrate high reversibility and stability, showing quasi-rectangular curve characteristics typical of Electrochemical double-layer capacitors (EDLC) behaviour. From photodegradation analysis, it is observed that MOBN2 acts as a photocatalyst for the removal of methylene blue with an efficiency of 84%. Overall, MOBN composites exhibit enhanced optical, thermal and electrochemical performance.