Insights into V₂O₅/COK-12 nanostructures for RH sensor and catalytic applications

This investigation introduces the multifaceted applications of V₂O₅/COK-12 nanostructures, presenting a novel approach for addressing the growing demand for advanced nanomaterials in environmental monitoring and remediation. The study explores the dual-functional capabilities of these nanostructures in humidity sensing and photocatalysis, leveraging the unique properties of COK-12, a zeolitic framework renowned for its exceptional surface area (825 m²/g) and porosity, as an optimal host for vanadium doping. Synthesized via hydrothermal method, the materials underwent thorough characterization to confirm the formation of COK-12. Humidity sensing evaluations, conducted over the entire relative humidity environment ranging from 11–98%, demonstrates the remarkable performance of V₂O₅/COK-12 sensor, manifesting a significant resistance drop spanning 4.8 folds of magnitude change, coupled with rapid response (16 s) and recovery (13 s) times. Furthermore, exploiting the redox activity of vanadium within the nanostructures for photocatalytic reactions reveals enhanced efficiency in degrading organic pollutants under UV light irradiation. The nanostructures exhibit superior catalytic performance, achieving up to 85% degradation of RB (Rose Bengal) dye, compared to pristine silica, which displays a modest 47% adsorption efficiency. This study underscores the versatility of V₂O₅/COK-12 nanostructures, highlighting their potential to address contemporary challenges in humidity sensing and sustainable photocatalysis.