An efficient photo-degradation of methylene blue by poly-3-thenoic acid sensitized Co/TiO2 under visible light and inactivation of pathogens

Abstract

Methylene blue dye is used extensively in industries, including paper, temporary hair coloring, coating for paper stock wool, and cotton dying. When the amount of methylene blue dye is more significant than 2 mg/kg, it can lead to serious health issues in people, including cyanosis, tissue necrosis, elevated heart rate, vomiting, shock, and Heinz body formation. The present chapter discusses the sol-gel-assisted synthesis of P3TA-supported Cobalt-doped TiO₂ nanohybrid. This study investigated the characteristics of both prepared bare TiO₂ and metal (Co) doped nano-hybrid using a variety of analytical tools, including XRD, SEM-EDX, BET, FTIR, XPS, and UV–visible DRS. The photo-catalytic performance of prepared samples was executed towards the degradation of methylene blue (MB) dye under visible light irradiations. Additionally, tests for antibiotic resistance were performed on the pathogens E. coli and S. aureus. Significant antibacterial activities against E. coli and S. aureus were demonstrated by the chemical under investigation (P3TA/Co-TiO₂) at a higher dosage of 800 μg/mL, with inhibition zones of 2.0 mm and 2.1 mm, respectively. The antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. aureus at 400 μg/mL was negligible, with inhibition zones of 1.0 mm and 1.2 mm, respectively. Because these materials are affordable and adaptable, they further the field of nano photo-catalysts.