Study of ZnO nanoparticle-supported clay minerals for electrochemical sensors, photocatalysis, and antioxidant applications
M. Mylarappa, N. Raghavendra, N.R. Bhumika, C.H. Chaithra, B.N. Nagalaxmi, K.N. Shravana Kumara
Abstract
This study proposes a cost-effective method for producing clay-metal oxides (clay/ZnO). The solution combustion technique was utilized to produce a composite of zinc ferrite and bentonite clay, with citric acid serving as both the fuel and complexing agent. XRD patterns confirmed the hexagonal unit cell structure of the clay/ZnO material. The FE-SEM micrographs revealed the presence of homogeneous, spherical ZnO particles infused in the clay matrix. The potential photocatalytic activity of the clay/ZnO composite in the UV-induced photodegradation of malachite green dye was investigated, demonstrating an outstanding 90% degradation rate. The resulting substance was subjected to electrochemical analysis using a custom-made electrode in a 0.1 M KOH electrolyte, exhibiting enhanced sensor capabilities for chemical and biomolecular sensing and excelling in cyclic voltammetry-based redox potential studies. To efficiently evaluate chemically synthesized NPs for electrochemical, sensing, and photocatalytic applications, this study aims to develop a solution combustion procedure for synthesizing clay/ZnO nanocomposites utilizing urea as a fuel.