Enhancing the photocatalytic and antimicrobial activity of ZnFe2O4 by composite with Ag2WO4 semiconducting material

Abstract

In this research article, we have performed the degradation of methylene blue dye (MB) in the presence of ZnFe₂O₄/Ag₂WO₄ photocatalyst. These catalyst materials are prepared by a simple combustion method followed by a solution mixing method. The structure and morphology of prepared composite material are analyzed by using XRD, FTIR, UV-DRS, and scanning electron microscopy. The antimicrobial property of composite material is studied against E. coli and S. aureus food pathogenic bacteria. After the incubation time, the antimicrobial activity of the composite material shows a clear zone of inhibition. This composite photocatalyst is a promising material to increase the degradation percentage of MB (Methylene blue) dye in the presence of UV light. ZnFe₂O₄/Ag₂WO₄ composite material shows 72.72% degradation of the MB dye. The photocatalytic activity of composite material has been performed by varying the catalyst dosage and pH level of the medium used for the degradation process. The role of composite material in the degradation of dye and their increase in the reaction rate has also been discussed. From these results, the ZnFe₂O₄/Ag₂WO₄ composite is a good material to degrade the toxic pollutants in the environment.