ZnO/carbon quantum dots nanocomposites derived from Moringa oleifera gum: An improved catalytic vitiation of methylene blue dye

The present study reports on the enhanced photocatalytic and chemocatalytic performance of ZnO/carbon dots (CDs) nanocomposites for the degradation of methylene blue (MB) dye. Carbon quantum dots were prepared by employing Moringa oleifera gum powder as a carbon source through the hydrothermal process. ZnO/CQDs nanocomposites were synthesized by dispersing ZnO nanoparticles into carbon quantum dot solution. The obtained samples were characterized by using techniques like FTIR, UV, and SEM with EDX analysis. When the methylene blue (MB) dye was exposed to visible light at room temperature, the ZnO/CQDs nanocomposites photocatalyst exhibited more photocatalytic and chemocatalytic activity than the pure ZnO nanoparticle photocatalyst. Antibacterial activity and cytotoxic assay of ZnO/CQDs nanocomposites were also investigated. In addition to protecting the environment, the purpose of this research is to create a new visible-light photocatalyst for the effective treatment of organic wastewater.