Photocatalytic, shielding and cytotoxic properties of reduced graphene oxide and Barium Ferrite nanocomposite synthesized via green combustion method

For the first time, reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and Barium Ferrite (BFO) nanocomposites were synthesized by using an eco-friendly green combustion method (sugar and Leucas aspera (Thumbe) leaves extract as reducing agent). Synthesized rGO/BFO nanocomposite was characterized by different characterization techniques. The PXRD pattern clearly confirms the formation of nanocomposite, where the peaks corresponding to both rGO and orthorhombic phase of BFO co-exists. In addition to these, very few peaks corresponding to Fe2O3 exist. Surface morphology clearly indicates the anchoring of BFO NPs on rGO sheet. Energy band gap determined by Wood and Tauc's relation was found to be 2.2 eV. Optical parameters such as Extinction coefficient, Refractive Index, Absorption coefficient and Transmission is determined from the transmission spectrum. Photocatalytic studies were carried out for degradation of Methylene Blue (MB) dye and was monitored by UV–Vis absorption spectroscopy. Further, radiation shielding properties and Cytotoxic effects are discussed in detail. •For the first time, reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and Barium Ferrite (BFO) nanocomposites are synthesized by using eco-friendly green combustion method.•The synthesized rGO/BFO nanocomposite was characterized by different characterization techniques. .•The surface morphology clearly indicates the anchoring of BFO NPs on the rGO sheet. .•The optical parameters such as Extinction Co efficient, Refractive Index, Absorption co-efficient and Transmission are determined from the transmission spectrum. .•The photocatalytic studies are carried out for degradation of Methylene Blue dye.•Further, radiation shielding properties and Cytotoxic effects are discussed in detail.