Decoration of MoO3 nanoparticles by MWCNTs driven visible light for the reduction of Cr(VI)

A simple one-step sol-gel method was used to prepare mesoporous molybdenum oxide using a F127 triblock copolymer structure-directing agent for the first time. MoO3@MWCNT nanocomposites with 1%, 2%, 3%, and 4% weight MWCNT were prepared using the impregnation method. MoO3 and MoO3@MWCNT nanocomposites were analyzed to identify their physical and chemical properties. The TEM results showed that MoO3 has a nanoparticle shape, and MoO3 nanoparticles were well dispersed on the surface of MWCNTs. The bandgap of the MoO3 sample can be adapted by adjusting the weight percent of MWCNTs. Additionally, the band gap of MoO3 was reduced by the addition of MWCNTs and improved their photocatalytic reduction of chromium (VI) under visible light. Finally, MoO3@MWCNT nanocomposites were used to reduce chromium (VI) beyond the loss of photocatalytic performance, which means they have high photocatalytic stability.