AgFe2O4/ZnO-based nanocomposites: synthesis, characterization, and photocatalytic performance

In this study, AgFe2O4/ZnO composites were synthesized, characterized, and evaluated for their photocatalytic performance. XRD analysis confirmed the formation of crystalline ZnO, AgFe2O4, and AgFe2O4/ZnO composites, with calculated crystallite sizes of 7, 8, and 10 nm, respectively. SEM and TEM analyses showed a uniform particle distribution with minimal agglomeration and well-defined interfaces, indicating stable morphology and effective particle integration. EDS and XPS confirmed the homogeneous distribution of Zn, Fe, Ag, and O elements, supporting efficient charge transfer. PL analysis showed reduced emission intensity in the composite, suggesting suppressed electron-hole recombination and enhanced charge separation due to the heterojunction between AgFe2O4 and ZnO. Photocatalytic tests demonstrated that the AgFe2O4/ZnO composite achieved over 80% degradation efficiency for organic pollutants within 120 minutes, outperforming pure ZnO. Recyclability tests indicated that the composite retained over 97% of its efficiency after ten cycles, demonstrating long-term stability. The scavenger experiments identified •OH and •O2- radicals as the principal reactive oxygen species, confirming their central role in the photocatalytic degradation pathway. VSM analysis revealed weak ferromagnetism, enabling efficient magnetic separation and enhancing the material’s reusability in photocatalytic applications. The novelty of this work lies in the synthesis of AgFe2O4/ZnO heterojunction nanocomposites, which have not been previously reported in the literature. These materials exhibit enhanced charge separation and excellent stability for repeated photocatalytic applications. These findings suggest that AgFe2O4/ZnO composites are promising materials for sustainable wastewater treatment through photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants. (Figure presented.)