Integrating N doped KNbO3 tailored with Sr2V2O7 for escalated performance towards photocatalytic degradation of metronidazole: Insights into mechanism, degradation pathway and its toxicity evaluation

The presence of antibiotics poses a significant environmental challenge due to their resistance to natural degradation. In this study, we employ state-of-the-art pristine nanomaterials including nitrogen (N) doped potassium niobate (KNbO3), and strontium pyrovanadate (Sr2V2O7) to intricately engineer N-KNbO3/Sr2V2O7 nanocomposites (KS NCs) for boosted photocatalytic degradation of metronidazole (MTZ). The microscopic techniques were used to reveal the nanocluster morphology, amorphous nature, proper dopant distribution and heterojunction formation. While X-Ray diffraction studies confirmed the purity of the synthesized materials. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy validated their chemical states and bonding nature. Brunauer–Emmett–Teller revealed the enhanced surface area and mesoporous nature of the NCs. UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy was used to demonstrate in the successful visible-light sensitization of the KS NCs with a bandgap of 2.80 eV. Further, PL studies indicated the reduced charge carrier recombination in the NCs and ESR proved the production of O2•− and •OH during photocatalysis. The photocatalytic degradation of MTZ by KS NCs attained 96.2 % in 140 min, and the effective results noted at pH 6. Moreover, these NCs efficacy was not reduced by the presence of ions and it demonstrated exceptional stability over multiple operational cycles. The application of gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy analysis allowed for the identification of potential degradation pathways of MTZ, denotes the formation of less harmful end products. Overall, this investigation showcases the significant potential of KS NCs for elimination of organic pollutants in water and paves a strategic way for manufacturing innovation. [Display omitted]