Synthesis and characterization of Mo2C for the photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue and Eosin blue dyes

This work focuses on synthesis of molybdenum carbide (Mo 2 C) and evaluation of its performance in photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue (MB) and Eosin blue (Eosin B) dyes. Hydrothermal method was utilized for the synthesis of photocatalyst. By using novel molybdenum carbide as a catalyst, the photocatalytic degradation of the aqueous solution of MB and Eosin B dyes was investigated. UV–visible spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared Ray (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and Scanning Electron microscopic (SEM) characterization techniques were employed for the identification of photocatalytic activity, structure, elemental composition and morphology of the synthesized photocatalyst respectively. Various parameters including catalyst dosage, initial dye concentration, reaction time and pH were examined in relation to the degradation rate of the dyes. Optimized conditions yielded degradation efficiencies of 81 % and 96.4 % for MB and Eosin B dyes respectively. The kinetic analysis of both dyes showed 2nd order kinetics. Due to their exclusive structural and electronic characteristics, the Mo 2 C exhibit remarkable photocatalytic properties owing high stability, adjustable band gaps and better charge separation potentials, offering a sustainable and effective approach for degradation processes. • Mo 2 C catalyst efficiently degrades Methylene Blue and Eosin Blue dyes. • Catalyst exhibits rapid reaction kinetics and high reusability under visible light. • Structural and optical analyses confirm enhanced light absorption. • Reduced charge recombination and improved surface active sites observed. • Provides insights for cost-effective, eco-friendly photocatalyst design.