Solvent-free synthesis of Cu-Cu2O nanocomposites via green thermal decomposition route using novel precursor and investigation of its photocatalytic activity

In the present study, Cu-Cu2O binary nanocomposites were successfully synthesized through a one-pot, cost-effective and green thermal decomposition route using PMP-Cu(II), extracted from pomegranate mare peels (PMP) by Cu(II), as a novel starting reagent for the first time. The morphology, crystalline structure, and composition of as-prepared Cu-Cu2O nanocomposites were extensively characterized by SEM, XRD, EDS and HRTEM. Effect of reaction parameters such as time, temperature and precursor type on product composition and morphology was evaluated. Moreover, methylene blue (MB) was used as a model of organic dye pollutant and photodegradation experiments were conducted by UV-vis spectrophotometry. The as-synthesized Cu-Cu2O binary nanocomposites demonstrated their potential as an excellent photocatalyst for degradation of MB under visible-light irradiation and Cu-Cu2O photocatalyst with higher content of Cu2O (prepared in air) exhibits the highest photocatalytic efficiency (similar to 99% degradation of MB in <150 min). (C) 2017 The Society of Powder Technology Japan. Published by Elsevier B.V. and The Society of Powder Technology Japan. All rights reserved.