Costus speciosus koen leaf extract assisted cs-znx (X = O or S) nanomaterials: Synthesis, characterization and photocatalytic degradation of rr 120 dye under uv and direct sunlight

Abstract The distinct nanocrystalline CS-ZnX (X = O or S) were achieved through Costus speciosus Koen leaf extract assisted precipitation cum hydrothermal method. The formation of the materials was confirmed by different characterization techniques such as XRD, FT-IR, Raman, FE-SEM, EDS, HR-TEM, DRS, and PL measurements. The photocatalytic activity of the prepared materials was tested on the decolourization of Reactive Red 120 dye (RR 120) aqueous solution. The photocatalytic activity was further confirmed by Acid Black 1 (AB 1) dye degradation. The dye photocatalytic process was investigated by considering the influence of test parameters such as catalyst concentration and initial dye pH. Moreover, complete decolourization of 50 ppm of RR 120 solution was achieved within 180 min at pH 5. Both catalysts were found to be reusable. The photocatalytic degradation of RR 120 by CS-ZnX (X = O or S) were confirmed GC–MS analysis, and suitable degradation pathways were proposed based on molecular ion and fragmentation peak values. The probable degradation mechanism was proposed and discussed.