Synergistic Photocatalysis of Bayerite/Zeolite Loaded TiO₂ Nanocomposites for Highly Efficient Degradation of Organic Pollutants in Aqueous Environments

Methylene blue dye (MB), prevalent in textiles like cotton, wood, and silk, raises environmental and health concerns. This study presents a successful synthesis of a Bayerite/zeolite nanocomposite powder using fumed silica by-product and aluminum nitrate. Hydrothermal exploration of factors, including duration, temperature, and Al/Si ratios, revealed that high temperature (160°C) and short duration (6h) favored optimal crystallization of bayerite/zeolite phases. Subsequently, an integrated photocatalytic adsorbent (IPA) was developed by mechanically mixing the synthesized bayerite/zeolite with TiO₂, followed by calcination (500 °C, 2 h), demonstrating superior efficiency in MB photodegradation under UV–Vis light. The IPA achieved 100% degradation efficiency for 60 mg/L of MB and maintained good photostability over three cycles. The bayerite/zeolite-supported TiO₂ nanocomposite exhibited the generation of positive holes (h +) and active hydroxyl radicals (OH•), showcasing its potential as a promising material for wastewater treatment applications.