Hydrothermal synthesis conditions effect on hierarchical ZnO/CuO hybrid materials and their photocatalytic activity

In the current study, we have explored the consequences of synthesis conditions on optical, morphological, and photoluminescence characteristics of hybridized ZnO nanocomposites. The photodegradation kinetics of Triclopyr, a pesticide, using hydrothermally synthesized ZnO/CuO materials at various synthesis conditions were also studied. The prepared samples were characterized by various techniques such as UV-vis spectrophotometer, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), elemental dispersive X-ray analysis, and photoluminescence spectrometer. From FESEM images, it was revealed that the synthesis conditions greatly influence the morphology of nanomaterials, particle size, nucleation, and crystal growth. To evaluate the percentage composition of elements present in synthesized materials, elemental analysis with mapping was performed. The band gap values were calculated using Kubelka Munk’s plot. The band gap values decrease on CuO incorporation and lie near infrared region. Effect of scavengers and pH on degradation kinetics were also explored. The complete mineralization of Triclopyr was achieved in 100 min. The synthesized materials are found energy efficient and helpful in environmental purification.