Enhanced efficiency of MoS2/SnO2 nanocomposite as a catalyst for the photodegradation of methylene blue

Abstract

In this work, the characteristics of MoS₂ and its nanocomposite with SnO₂ for photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue have been investigated. The MoS₂ and MoS₂/SnO₂ nanocomposites were synthesized by the hydrothermal method. SEM analysis shows the flower-like structure of MoS₂ while MoS₂/SnO₂ nanocomposites shows grain-like structure. The EDX analysis of the MoS₂ and MoS₂/SnO₂ nanocomposites confirm the samples were mainly composed of Mo, S, Sn, and O atoms and the XRD patterns confirm hexagonal and rhombohedral phases, respectively. The FTIR spectra indicate the presence of both hydroxyl and carboxyl functional groups at the sample's surface. The UV–Visible spectroscopy findings witness both samples are being active in the visible range. Further, the band gap estimation through Tauc plot supports the assertion that these materials could be an efficient catalyst for photodegradation. Furthermore, the photodegradation of methylene blue (used as a dye) findings declare the maximum efficiency of 93% by using MoS₂/SnO₂ nanocomposite as a catalyst.

Graphical Abstract