Environmental water treatment with green synthesized WO3 nanoflakes for cationic and anionic dyes removal: Photocatalytic studies

Abstract

This study introduces a novel green synthesis method using Hyphaene Thebaica fruit extracts to produce WO3 nanoflakes. The synthesized material exhibits remarkable visible light photocatalytic efficiency in degrading Methylene Blue (MB) and Congo Red (CR) pollutants. With removal efficiencies exceeding 98% for MB and 93% for CR within short durations, the WO3 nanoflakes show promise for water treatment. Trapping experiments suggest that hydroxyl radicals, hydrogen peroxide, and holes are the primary reactive species involved in the photodegradation process. Additionally, the recyclability study demonstrates the stability and reusability of WO3 nanoflakes, further highlighting their potential for practical applications in wastewater treatment.