In-situ treated ZnO/Fe2O3 nanocomposites synthesized via microwave for enhanced Photo-Fenton photocatalysis and antimicrobial efficacy

The development of effective and cost-efficient photocatalysts is crucial for wastewater treatment. This study aimed to synthesize and evaluate ZnO/Fe 2 O 3 nanocomposites (ZnFe NCs) as novel photocatalysts for the removal of organic contaminates. We synthesized ZnFe NCs using a simple, environmentally friendly microwave-assisted method. Characterization was conducted using HR-TEM, SEM-EDS, XPS, and X-ray diffraction. The photocatalytic performance was evaluated with methylene blue (MB) and orange II (O-II) dyes, showing that ZnFe NCs with H 2 O 2 achieved 98.2 % dye removal under 120 min of sunlight. This performance surpassed that of controls, including ZnO, Fe 2 O 3 , and ZnO/Fe 2 O 3 alone. The study also determined optimal conditions for the photocatalysts, demonstrating enhanced photocatalytic activity. Antibacterial tests showed inhibition zones of 22 mm against Staphylococcus aureus ( S. aureus ) and 20 mm against Escherichia coli ( E. coli ) at 100 mg/mL. ZnFe NCs show dual potential for photocatalytic degradation and antimicrobial activity, ideal for wastewater treatment and microbial control.