TiO2/NiFe2-xCexO4/rGO ternary magnetic nanocomposite as separable and recyclable photocatalyst

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This study investigates the synthesis and application of a TiO2/NiFe2-xCexO4/rGO ternary magnetic nanocomposite as an efficient and recyclable photocatalyst. The nanocomposite was characterized using Fourier-transform infrared(FTIR), X-ray diffraction(XRD), Field emission scanning electron microscopy(FE-SEM), magnetic measurements, UV–Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy(DRS), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). FTIR analysis confirmed the formation of the inverse spinel cubic structure, with significant vibrational bands related to metal–oxygen complexes. XRD patterns showed successful incorporation of Ce3+ ions into the NiFe2O4 lattice, with shifts in diffraction peaks indicating changes in crystallite size and lattice parameters. FE-SEM images revealed a well-dispersed distribution of TiO2 and NiFe2O4 nanoparticles on the reduced graphene oxide (rGO) surface, enhancing the nanocomposite’s structural integrity. Energy dispersive X-ray(EDX) analysis demonstrated the presence of Ti, Ni, Fe, Ce, O, and C elements in the ternary nanocomposite without impurities, confirming the high purity of the material. Magnetic measurements indicated increased magnetization due to Ce3+ doping. DRS revealed optical band gaps (Bg), and XPS provided detailed insights into the surface chemical composition and valence states. XPS analysis confirmed the presence of Ni2+, Fe3+, Ti4+, and Ce3+ ions, and verified the reduction of graphene oxide to rGO. Importantly, the XPS data also indicated a reduction in the binding energy of oxygen species, which suggests effective electron trapping. The photocatalytic performance was assessed by the degradation of methylene blue (MB) under UV and Vis light. The TiO2/NiFe2-xCexO4/rGO nanocomposite demonstrated superior photocatalytic activity with high degradation rates. The enhanced photocatalytic efficiency is attributed to efficient electron trapping, which reduces electron-hole recombination. Furthermore, the nanocomposite showed excellent reusability, maintaining high photocatalytic efficiency over multiple cycles of use, which underscores its potential for practical applications in environmental remediation.