Specially designed B4C/SnO2 nanocomposite for photocatalysis: traditional ceramic with unique properties

Abstract

Abstract Boron carbide: A traditional ceramic material shows unique properties when explored in nano-range. Specially designed boron-based nanocomposite has been synthesized by reflux method. The addition of SnO2 in base matrix increases the defect states in boron carbide and shows unique catalytic properties. The calculated texture coefficient and Nelson–Riley factor show that the synthesized nanocomposite has large number of defect states. Also this composite is explored for the first time for catalysis degradation of industrial used dyes. The degradation analysis of industrial pollutants such as Novacron red Huntsman (NRH) and methylene blue (MB) dye reveals that the composite is an efficient catalyst. Degradation study shows that 1 g/L catalyst concentration of B4C/SnO2 degrades NRH and MB dye up to approximately 97.38 and 79.41%, respectively, in 20 min under sunlight irradiation. This water-insoluble catalyst can be recovered and reused.