Carbon‐based composite nanofibers for photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue dye under visible light

Abstract

AbstractPhotocatalytic degradation from Photocatalytic Nanomaterials composites is a great possibility to investigate the energy shortage and potential natural risks determined by nanomaterial composites. Graphite oxide and carbon quantum dots (CQDs) were added to Polyacrylonitrile nanofibers to improve the photocatalytic activity and mechanical qualities of the composite nanofibers. Under visible light irradiation, the photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes—methylene blue dye from the simulated industrial wastewater has been studied. Electrospinning is used to create polyacrylonitrile nanofibers, which are then chemically cross‐linked with graphite oxide and CQDs to get efficient photocatalytic degradation. In‐depth analysis has been done on every parameter relating to dyes and the photocatalytic degradation mechanism. Using scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis, the surface sensitization and morphological changes of the synthesized composite nanofibers were investigated. With a 100% degradation efficiency for MB after 25 min, sensitized CQDs with graphite oxide demonstrated better efficiency in the degradation of MB when compared with pristine elements. The ideal catalytic conditions, including pH and starting organic dye content, were discussed. Methylene blue dye degraded more effectively as initial concentrations dropped. The reaction rate slows down at a pH of 7. The proposed composite demonstrated high stability and reusability for MB dye, and the cost‐controlling method can be utilized in advanced applications.