RETRACTED ARTICLE: ZnMoO₄/g-C₃N₄ S-scheme heterojunction photocatalyst: synthesis, structural, optical, and its photocatalytic properties

Utilizing a single-step hydrothermal method, we prepared both pure ZnMoO₄ and ZnMoO₄/g-C₃N₄ composite, showcasing distinctive electronic and structural features that render it promising for environmental and energy remediation applications. XRD analysis confirmed the successful formation of ZnMoO₄/g-C₃N₄ composites. The FESEM image of g-C₃N₄ displayed stacked flat sheets with noticeable wrinkles, showcasing its two-dimensional structure and irregular pores, enhancing its unique characteristics. Pure ZnMoO₄ exhibited self-growth into hexagonal plate structures, with additional decoration of g-C₃N₄ sheets on its surface. UV–Vis absorption spectra analysis confirmed the interlayer structure of g-C₃N₄ and ZnMoO₄ in the heterojunction, leading to a considerable increase in UV absorption and enhanced charge-separation efficiency within the binary ZnMoO₄/g-C₃N₄ heterostructure. The photocatalytic activity of the synthesized ZnMoO₄ and ZnMoO₄/g-C₃N₄ nanocomposites was evaluated through the degradation of methylene blue (MB) dye under UV light irradiation. The results indicated that ZnMoO₄ surface decorated with g-C₃N₄ 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.