ZnMoO4/g-C3N4 S-scheme heterojunction photocatalyst: synthesis, structural, optical, and its photocatalytic properties

Utilizing a single-step hydrothermal method, we prepared both pure ZnMoO 4 and ZnMoO 4 /g-C 3 N 4 composite, showcasing distinctive electronic and structural features that render it promising for environmental and energy remediation applications. XRD analysis confirmed the successful formation of ZnMoO 4 /g-C 3 N 4 composites. The FESEM image of g-C 3 N 4 displayed stacked flat sheets with noticeable wrinkles, showcasing its two-dimensional structure and irregular pores, enhancing its unique characteristics. Pure ZnMoO 4 exhibited self-growth into hexagonal plate structures, with additional decoration of g-C 3 N 4 sheets on its surface. UV–Vis absorption spectra analysis confirmed the interlayer structure of g-C 3 N 4 and ZnMoO 4 in the heterojunction, leading to a considerable increase in UV absorption and enhanced charge-separation efficiency within the binary ZnMoO 4 /g-C 3 N 4 heterostructure. The photocatalytic activity of the synthesized ZnMoO 4 and ZnMoO 4 /g-C 3 N 4 nanocomposites was evaluated through the degradation of methylene blue (MB) dye under UV light irradiation. The results indicated that ZnMoO 4 surface decorated with g-C 3 N 4 sheets significantly influenced photocatalysis. Moreover, an increase in the nanocomposite composition led to enhanced efficiency in the photocatalytic process, with the incorporation of carbon nitride on zinc molybdates resulting in a threefold increase in photocatalytic activity.