Facile Synthesis of rGO/NiIn₂S₄ Nanocomposite Photocatalyst for Visible Light-Driven Photocatalytic Breakdown of Crystal Violet (CV) Dye

A composite photocatalyst, denoted as rGO/NiIn₂S₄ (rGO/NIS), was created to facilitate the efficient destruction of crystal violet (CV) dye under visible radiation. This composite photocatalyst consists of NiIn₂S₄ (NIS) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO). The photocatalytic behavior of pristine NiIn₂S₄ for the breakdown of crystal violet (CV) in the presence of visible light was found to be significant. However, the experimental findings indicated that the material experienced substantial breakdown upon exposure to visible light. The rGO/NIS contains significantly improved visible light photocatalytic behavior compared to the hybrid material (NIS). The data on characterization indicates that there exists a chemical interaction between NiIn₂S₄ nanosheets and rGO sheets, resulting in the development of a band structure that may be adjusted and in an enhancement in photocatalytic performance. Significantly, the establishment of covalent bonds between NiIn₂S₄ and rGO holds promise for enhancing the structural integrity of the composite, thus augmenting its resistance to photocorrosion. The finding of this study has the potential to contribute to the formulation of an innovative strategy in the creation of photocatalysts that are active under visible light and resistant to degradation by sunlight. These photocatalysts can be utilized in the field of environmental remediation.