Synthesis and Photocatalytic Performance of PVA/TiO2/Graphene-MWCNT Nanocomposites for Dye Removal

TiO2/graphene-MWCNT nanocomposite was prepared using solvothermal reaction for the effective distribution of TiO2 nanoparticles on carbonaceous materials. TiO2/graphene-MWCNT nanocomposite was immobilized in poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) matrix for a convenient recovery after wastewater purification. MWCNT was incorporated in a nanocomposite not only to prevent the restacking of graphene but also to increase the electron transfer from TiO2. The detailed characterization of the nanocomposite was performed using SEM, EDX, XRD, XPS, and FTIR. The photocatalytic performance of PVA/TiO2/graphene-MWCNT nanocomposite was investigated by UV spectroscopy on the basis of degradation of organic pollutants. PVA/TiO2/graphene-MWCNT nanocomposite showed improved photocatalytic decomposition of more than 70% of residual dye left in case of using PVA/TiO2/graphene nanocomposite due to the improved electron transfer and the higher adsorption of organic pollutants. PVA/TiO2/graphene-MWCNT nanocomposite was suitable as a promising material for the recyclable photocatalytic wastewater purification system. (c) 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.