Enhanced photocatalytic and antibacterial performance of LaMnCeO3/TiO2 composites modified with Ti3C2Tx MXene for efficient methyl red degradation

In this study, LaMnCeO3/TiO2 nanocomposites modified with MXene were synthesized with varying La: Mn: Ce ratios to investigate their photocatalytic performance, charge-transfer behavior, and surface-related characteristics. TEM analysis revealed that MXene forms thin lamellar sheets, serving as a dispersive support for predominantly spherical or semi-spherical LaMnCeO3/TiO2 nanoparticles (sizes ranging from a few nanometers to ~ 100 nm). EDS mapping confirmed uniform distribution of La, Mn, Ce, Ti, O, and C throughout the composites. Structural and spectroscopic analyses demonstrated successful MXene incorporation, formation of mesoporous architectures with tunable surface areas, and compositional control over electronic transitions and chemical bonding. Photocatalytic studies indicated that LMC-112 achieved the highest dye degradation efficiency, while LMC-111 exhibited outstanding stability over five consecutive cycles. The photocatalytic performance was strongly dependent on pH, temperature, dye concentration, and reaction time. EIS, PL, and XPS analyses revealed efficient interfacial charge transfer, suppressed electron–hole recombination, and active surface defect states, which collectively enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Importantly, antibacterial assays revealed negligible microbial inhibition under the tested conditions, indicating that the material does not exhibit strong antibacterial activity. Overall, the LaMnCeO3/TiO2/MXene nanocomposites provide a stable and highly efficient platform for visible-light-driven wastewater treatment and environmental remediation, with performance tunable through compositional and structural optimization.