Synthesis, Characterization, and Enhanced Photocatalytic Degradation of Rose Bengal (RB) Dye Using an α-Fe₂O₃/MgO Nanocomposite

The current investigation delves into the structural, morphological, optical, and magnetic properties of α-Fe₂O₃, MgO, and an α-Fe₂O₃/MgO nanocomposite, synthesized via an innovative hydrothermal methodology, offering novel insights into their potential application in the purification of dye-contaminated water. Through meticulous analysis, x-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns authenticate the successful formation of the nanocomposite, while high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) reveals nanocrystalline particles with dimensions ranging from 19 nm to 30 nm. A noteworthy observation is the demonstration of a tunable optical bandgap, spanning from 2.20 eV to 3.08 eV, via UV–visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopy, indicative of the integration of wide-bandgap semiconductors, a key feature essential for efficient photocatalytic activity. Evaluation of the magnetic properties using vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM) shows a discernible reduction in magnetization in the nanocomposite, attributed to the incorporation of nonmagnetic MgO into the magnetic α-Fe₂O₃ matrix, thereby revealing unprecedented magnetic modulation. Particularly striking is the exceptional photocatalytic performance of the α-Fe₂O₃/MgO nanocomposite, achieving 84% degradation of rose Bengal (RB) dye under UV light exposure within a remarkably brief 75-min period. This pronounced enhancement in photocatalytic activity is ascribed to the reduced recombination probability of photo-induced carriers, suggesting effective charge transfer within the nanocomposite, thus elucidating its suitability for efficient wastewater treatment, particularly in the domain of dye removal.