Crafting Superior Photocatalytic Potential: Synergistic Precipitation-Hydrothermal Customization of CTAB-Engineered Co3O4 Nanoparticles

Abstract

This study introduces CTAB-loaded Co₃O₄ nanoparticles (NPs) as a highly efficient solution for removing Brilliant Yellow (BY), Reactive Yellow (RY) and Methyl Orange (MO) dye from contaminated water. Synthesized via a co-precipitation and hydrothermal method, these NPs were characterized using UV-Vis, FTIR, XRD, TEM, and SEM. The Co₃O₄ NPs, with a crystallite size of 11.88 nm and an average particle size of 13 nm, achieved 100% photocatalytic degradation of BY dye (120 mg/L) within 140 min. Additionally, the NPs demonstrated promising photocatalytic activity against RY and MO dyes. The synergy between CTAB and Co₃O₄ NPs enhances dye degradation, positioning them as a cost-effective and efficient solution for wastewater treatment. This work highlights the environmental potential of CTAB/Co₃O₄ NPs in addressing water pollution challenges.