Novel ZnO-TiO2 nanocomposite arrays on Ti fabric for enhanced photocatalytic application

In this study, ZnO-TiO2 nanocomposite arrays on Ti fabric were synthesized via a hydrothermal process, where the amorphous TiO2 nanotube array was used as a precursor. The fabrication process involved the preparation of zinc acetate particles that were modified on TiO2 nanotube arrays. These transformed the amorphous TiO2 to crystallized ZnO-TiO2. The prepared samples were then characterized by X-ray diffractometer, field-emission scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and photoluminescence. Photodegradation test of methyl orange was examined using the ZnO-TiO2 nanocomposite arrays on the Ti fabric. Following 60 min of UV irradiation nearly 100% photodegradation of the 20 mg L−1 methyl orange solution at pH = 10 was achieved. The degradation products were identified and the photocatalysis process was studied. The results obtained in the study will enable researchers to design a scalable, practical process for dye wastewater treatment.