Sm3+-BiFeO3 nano catalyst: A synergetic effect of Sm3+ on enhanced multiferroic properties and photocatalysis

•Bi1−xSmxFeO3 (x = 0.04, 0.08, 0.12 & 0.16) nanoferrites were successfully synthesized by sol-gel route.•The degradation of MB dye in the presence of catalysts was achieved 80.78% in 140 min in the presence of visible light.•The highest value of energy storage density (Wu) and its efficiency (η) is 6.324 mJ/cm3 & 61% in Bi0.88Sm0.16FeO3 is observed.•A significant enhancement is observed in multiferroic character of the BSFO nanoferrites. [Display omitted] Photolysis in multiferroic nanoferrites has wide-ranging applications in resolution of the environmental issues and actuators. In the current study, we examine the consequence of Sm3+ (x = 0.04 (S1), 0.08 (S2), 0.12 (S3) & 0.16 (S4)) substitution on catalysis and energy storage density of Bi1−xSmxFeO3 (BSFO). The BSFO nanoferrites were characterized via XRD (X-ray Diffraction), FESEM (Field Emission Scanning Electron microscopy) with EDS, UV–visible spectroscopy, AC Impedance Analyzer, VSM (Vibrating Spin Magnetometer), photon driven catalysis for MB dye degradation and polarization behavior (P-E). The photo-catalytic degradation efficiencies were increased from 49.90% to 80.78% with the substitution of Sm3+. The energy storage density and efficiency increases from 4.415 to 6.324 mJ/cm3, 42–61%, respectively. As well, the magnetic and ferroelectric curves were also traced, and the saturation magnetization (Ms) and saturation polarization (Ps) values were found to be increased from 0.529 to 1.221 emu/gm and 0.726–1.208 µC/Cm2, respectively, as extensively manipulated via Sm3+ substitution.