The synthesis of CoxNi1−xFe2O4/multi-walled carbon nanotube nanocomposites and their photocatalytic performance

Abstract

A series of Co_xNi_1−xFe₂O₄/multi-walled carbon nanotube (Co_xNi_1−xFe₂O₄/MWCNTs) nanocomposites as photocatalysts were successfully synthesized, where Co_xNi_1−xFe₂O₄ was synthesized via a one-step hydrothermal approach. Simultaneously, methylene blue (MB) was used as the research object to investigate the catalytic effect of the catalyst in the presence of hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂). The results showed that all the photocatalysts exhibited enhanced catalytic activity compared to pure ferrite. In addition, compared with the other photocatalysts, the reaction time was greatly shortened a significantly higher removal rate was achieved using 3-CNF/MWCNTs. There was no significant decrease in photodegradation efficiency after three catalytic cycles, suggesting that Co_xNi_1−xFe₂O₄/MWCNTs are recyclable photocatalysts for wastewater treatment. Our results indicate that the Co_xNi_1−xFe₂O₄/MWCNT composite can be effectively applied for the removal of organic pollutants as a novel photocatalyst.