Synergistic photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue and ibuprofen using Co₃O₄-Decorated hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) composites under Sun-like irradiation
M. El Bouziani, Asmae Bouziani, Abdelghani Hsini, Claudia L. Bianchi, Ermelinda Falletta, Alessandro Di Michele, Gökhan Çelik, Robert Hausler
Abstract
In this study, we report the synthesis and photocatalytic performance of Co₃O₄-decorated hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) composites for degrading methylene blue (MB) and ibuprofen (IBF) under sunlight irradiation. Using a dry impregnation method, the composites were prepared with varying Co₃O₄ loadings (0.5%, 1%, 2%). Comprehensive characterization confirmed the successful incorporation and uniform distribution of Co₃O₄ on the hBN matrix. Photocatalytic experiments revealed that 1% Co₃O₄-hBN composite exhibited the highest activity, achieving nearly 100% MB degradation in 60 min and 90% IBF degradation in 120 min. The enhanced photocatalytic efficiency is attributed to the synergistic effects between Co₃O₄ and hBN, which extend light absorption and promote charge separation. Our findings demonstrate the potential of Co 3 O₄-decorated hBN composites as effective photocatalysts for environmental remediation. The study provides a foundation for further exploration of these materials, including their long-term stability and application to a broader range of pollutants. • Co₃O₄-Decorated hBN was synthesized via wet impregnation. • Methylene Blue and ibuprofen were successfully degraded using Co₃O₄-hBN under Sun-like irradiation. • The 1% Co₃O₄ loading showed the highest photocatalytic efficiency for both pollutants. • Holes, O₂. •− and •OH are reactive species.