Synthesis and characterization of zinc ferrite nanomaterials vis-à-vis studies on their photocatalytic application in visible light dye degradation

Abstract

In present study, the synthesis of zinc ferrite (ZnFe₂O₄) nanomaterials using Pleurotus ostreatus (Oyster mushroom) extract using bio-inspired green method is reported. The synthesized ZnFe₂O₄ nanomaterials are characterized using techniques likes XRD, FTIR, Raman, absorption, photoluminescence, SEM, HR-TEM and magnetic studies. X-ray diffraction analysis confirm the structure, purity and extract control nanoscale size (16.00–28.08 nm) of the ZnFe₂O₄ nanomaterials. FTIR, Raman, UV–Vis, and photoluminescence studies support the formation of pure ZnFe₂O₄ nanomaterials. FT-IR analysis identifies different functional groups present in the ZnFe₂O₄ nanomaterials, while Raman spectra show characteristic peaks corresponding to ZnFe₂O₄ spinel structures. UV–Vis–NIR absorption spectra, which also show a number of electronic transitions connected to absorption bands and allow estimation of direct (2.19–2.30 eV) and indirect (1.50–1.54 eV) energy band gap values. The absorption data is utilized to calculate Urbach energy (0.37–0.40 eV), which describe the role of defects in these materials. Photoluminescence spectra display two peaks (one in visible region and the others in NIR region) indicating the presence of different defect levels in the nanoparticles. From SEM/TEM images the surface morphology, size, shape, and distribution of the nanoparticles are explored. These ZnFe₂O₄ nanomaterials show photocatalytic activity under the irradiation of visible light, degrading Methylene Blue and Rose Bengal dyes in water without additional additives. The photodegradation reaction rates are determined, showcasing the potential of these materials in environmental nano remediation. Photodegradation efficiency strongly depends on catalyst’s size, dose and reaction temperature. Controlling the optimizing condition faster photodegradation rate can be achieved. Noted that the catalyst can be recycled. Here, the dye degradation mechanism is discussed. Scavenger test indicates that the OH* radicals majorly lead the photodegradation process. Overall, present study highlights the significant influence of Oyster mushroom extract on the structural, optical and photocatalytic properties of the green synthesized ZnFe₂O₄ nanomaterials.