Preparation and Characterization of Fe3O4/CdS Nanocomposites and Their Use as Recyclable Photocatalysts

This paper presents a novel method for the preparation of Fe3O4/CdS nanocomposites via a sonochemical route in an aqueous solution. The products were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray analysis, UV/vis absorption, fluorescence spectrum, and vibrating sample magnetometer. Compared with the similar nanostructures synthesized by other methods, it is found to be mild, convenient, inexpensive, green, and efficient. These Fe3O4/CdS nanocomposites display fluorescence and exhibit excellent magnetic properties at room temperature. Photocatalytic activity studies confirm that as-prepared nanocomposites have highly photocatalytic activity toward the photodegradation of methyl orange in aqueous solution. Furthermore, the photodecomposition rate decreases only slightly after 12 cycles of the photocatalysis experiment. Thus, these Fe3O4/CdS nanocomposites can be served as effective and convenient recyclable photocatalysts.