Metal-free and fully recoverable MWCNT/g-C3N4 /chitosan nanocomposite thin film with excellent photocatalytic activity against organic pollutant degradation

Abstract

The hybrid MWCNTs/g-C3N4/CS (Chitosan) NCTF (Nanocomposites Thin Film) was prepared successfully utilising a simple solution casting approach. The growth of a sheet-like structure of NCTF was predicted by SEM and TEM pictures, and XRD corroborated this. The MWCNTs/g-C3N4/CS NCTF showed better photocatalytic activity in visible light phenol degradation. SEM and TEM investigations indicated that increases in charge segregation, nanotube and nanosheet shape, and other parameters accounted for the improved photocatalytic activity. It is essential to highlight that the MWCNTs/g-C3N4/CS NCTF photocatalyst is an excellent catalyst for eliminating pollutants when exposed to visible light. In the fifth cycle, the photocatalyst can get rid of more than 80% of the phenol. The results of the stability and reusability tests indicate that the catalyst is long-lasting and may be reused on multiple times.