Advancements in ZnO-based photocatalysts for effective rhodamine dye removal from water

The escalating growth of industries, population, and urban culture has exacerbated the global challenge of contaminated water due to hazardous organic dyes. One such noxious dye, rhodamine, poses a significant threat to human health and has consequently prompted extensive research into its removal from wastewater. Nanostructured ZnO emerges as a promising photocatalyst for tackling such hazardous colorants, owing to its exceptional performance and heightened surface reactivity. This review article comprehensively examines the photocatalytic removal of rhodamine dye by various ZnO nanomaterial-based catalysts over the past few decades. The primary objective is to investigate the impact of different synthesis techniques and modifications of ZnO, including doping with metal ions, carbon, and sulfur, or the creation of composites with various low-dimensional carbon materials, metal oxides, metal sulfides, and polymers. These strategies have been explored to enhance the efficacy of rhodamine dye remediation from wastewater by harnessing the improved photocatalytic performance of ZnO nanomaterials. The review delves into recent literature reports, highlighting observed results and key findings addressing critical challenges and outlines prospects for ZnO-based photocatalysts in rhodamine dye remediation. It becomes evident that evolving synthesis methods and optimizing the heterojunction of ZnO photocatalysts are essential for advancing the efficacy of rhodamine dye removal and contributing to the creation of a cleaner and greener environment.