Synthesis of zinc ferrite perovskite nanoparticles by sol gel method for the degradation of binary and ternary solutions of cationic and anionic dyes

Abstract

Nanotechnologies, renowned for their size-tunable characteristics, have become pivotal in environmental engineering, offering promising avenues for degrading various contaminants. This study delves into the utilization of novel zinc ferrite perovskite nanoparticles for the photocatalytic degradation of MB Magenta, GL Toluidine Blue dye, M5B Reactive Red dyes, as well as binary mixtures thereof. Warm visible light was used to the photocatalytic degradation process. Investigations encompassed the analysis of degradation rates concerning time, dye loading, pH, and adsorbent dosage. Results indicate that at a catalyst dosage of 50 mg and 10 mg/L dye concentration, 99 % degradation was achieved within 50 min for individual dyes. pH variations and different dye and catalyst loadings also influenced degradation efficiency. Notably, degradation of dye mixtures revealed varying individual degradation rates and overall efficiencies of 85 % and 80 % for time and pH studies, respectively. Furthermore, ternary mixtures displayed 86 % efficiency for time study and 78 % for pH study. FTIR analysis indicated structural breakdown of dye molecules, while TOC reduction confirmed mineralization, together validating the occurrence of photocatalytic degradation. The study underscores the stable reusability of the catalyst. Zinc ferrite perovskite nanoparticles emerge as promising substitutes for dye removal from colored solutions, demonstrating significant potential in environmental remediation.