Synthesis of novel Bi/Bi2O3@Al2O3 nanocomposites for wastewater treatment, self-cleaning, and corrosion resistance

Abstract

For the development of Bi/Bi₂O₃@Al₂O₃ nanocomposites for wastewater treatment, corrosion resistance, and self-cleaning properties, it is imperative to carefully combine and analyze various elements for the optimization of catalyst performance. We aim to provide effective and long-term environmental remediation solutions. FTIR spectroscopy, XRD, SEM, EDS, TEM, UV-vis spectroscopy, PL, and TGA techniques were used to characterize the Bi/Bi₂O₃@Al₂O₃ nanocomposite. The nanocomposite displayed significant supercapacitance and self-cleaning properties. A composite of bismuth–aluminum oxides was used as a catalyst to facilitate the catalytic reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) dye in aqueous solutions, and excellent catalytic reduction results were obtained. The photocatalyst catalyzed the reduction of 4-NP to 99% with a rate constant of 2.592 × 10⁻² (10⁻² min⁻¹) in a short period of 40 minutes under UV-visible irradiation. Photogenerated electrons migrate from Bi/Bi₂O₃@Al₂O₃ when exposed to visible light as a result of the significant band gap in the conduction band and the structure of the core electrostatic field within the p–n heterojunction. When exposed to visible light, the Bi/Bi₂O₃@Al₂O₃ nanocomposite exhibited more charge separation with excellent catalytic reduction efficiency. It represents an important development since it offers effective wastewater treatment remedies, energy storage, and self-cleaning properties.