Nitrogen-doped carbon quantum dots supported zinc oxide (ZnO/N-CQD) nanoflower photocatalyst for methylene blue photodegradation

This research highlights the three-step hydrothermal synthesis of N-CQD and its effect on the physical properties and photocatalytic activity of ZnO/N-CQD compared to ZnO commercial and the prepared ZnO nanoflower. The physical and optical properties of photocatalysts were conducted to investigate the correlation with photo -degradation of Methylene Blue (MB) under visible light. During 30 min, MB concentration decreased to 80% by the prepared ZnO/N-CQD. This result showed superior activity compared to ZnO commercial and ZnO nano -flowers. Considering the high photocatalytic performance of ZnO/N-CQD, it can be further used as an efficient photocatalyst for organic pollutant removal from aqueous.

Automated summary

The research focuses on the three-step hydrothermal synthesis of N-CQD and its impact on the physical properties and photocatalytic activity of ZnO/N-CQD in comparison to ZnO commercial and prepared ZnO nanoflower. The physical and optical properties of photocatalysts were investigated to understand their correlation with the photo-degradation of Methylene Blue under visible light. Within 30 minutes, the prepared ZnO/N-CQD achieved an 80% decrease in MB concentration, demonstrating superior activity compared to ZnO commercial and ZnO nanoflowers. Considering the high photocatalytic performance of ZnO/N-CQD, it can be further utilized as an efficient photocatalyst for the removal of organic pollutants from aqueous solutions.