Tailoring Photocatalytic Degradation Efficiency of ZnO Nanorods for Methyl Orange Dye Removal: Unveiling Key Parameters and Performance Optimization

In this study, we present a facile hydrothermal synthesis route to fabricate zinc oxide (ZnO) nanorods. The ZnO nanorods catalyst was characterized using various techniques. X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed the hexagonal wurtzite crystal structure, while field emission transmission electron microscopy (FE-TEM) verified the uniform rod-like morphology of ZnO. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), UV–Vis spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were employed to analyze the chemical bonds, optical properties, and oxidation states of the ZnO catalyst, respectively. Leveraging these insights, we investigate the photocatalytic degradation efficiency of ZnO nanorods towards methyl orange (MO) dye, unveiling the essential role of various parameters in modulating photocatalytic degradation kinetics. Our findings underscore the deep impact of pH values, catalyst loading, dye concentration, dye volume, and reusability performance on the adsorption process, thus explaining their critical influence on photocatalytic degradation performance. Through systematic exploration and optimization of these parameters, we demonstrate a tailored approach towards enhancing the efficacy of ZnO nanorods for environmental remediation applications, paving the way for sustainable and efficient wastewater treatment strategies.