Synthesis of La-doped ZrO2/g-C3N4 nanocomposite for eosin yellow photodegradation: A combined experimental and theoretical studies

• Published in: Catalysis communications 2024-02, Vol.187, p.106852, Article 106852
• Main Authors: Haruna, Moro, Bandoh, Charles Kwame, Agorku, Eric Selorm, Opoku, Francis, Asare-Donkor, Noah Kyame, Adimado, Anthony Apeke
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Density functional theory; Eosin yellow; Graphitic carbon nitride; Photocatalytic; Zirconium oxide
• ISSN: 1566-7367; 1873-3905
• DOI: 10.1016/j.catcom.2024.106852

In this study, La-doped ZrO2/g-C3N4 nanocomposites were synthesized and remarkably, 0.8% La-doped ZrO2/g-C3N4 exhibited an outstanding degradation efficiency of 87% (k = 11.301 × 10−3 min−1). The enhanced photocatalytic performance is due to the synergistic effects of lanthanum and g-C3N4, which promote charge separation and increase the number of active sites. A built-in electric field exists according to the charge density difference and electrostatic potential results. At 300 K, the nanocomposite is thermally, energetically, and dynamically stable. Our results provide valuable insights into the design and development of efficient photocatalysts for the removal of organic contaminants from aqueous environments. [Display omitted] •La-doped ZrO2/g-C3N4 was successfully synthesized for Eosin Yellow degradation.•0.8% La-doped ZrO2/g-C3N4 exhibited an outstanding degradation efficiency 87%.•A built-in electric field exists between the La-doped ZrO2 and g-C3N4 layers.•At 300 K, the La-doped ZrO2/g-C3N4 is thermally and dynamically stable.