Rapid catalysis of textile dyes with SnO₂/ZnO nanocomposite fabricated by green chemistry and its antibacterial properties

The fabrication of semiconductor nanocomposites with precise morphology using environment friendly methods presents multiple challenges. In this study, we successfully employed a green synthesis approach using anthocyanin-rich peel extract of Punica granatum to fabricate the semiconductor nanocomposite SnO₂/ZnO (SZ). Extensive evaluation of SZ showed sharp crystalline planes via X-ray diffraction, irregular nanoplate-like structures from 40 to 70 nm due to quantum confinement effects and a broad absorption band from 350 to 380 nm with an energy gap of 3.11 eV. Notably, the SZ nanocomposite demonstrated significant antimicrobial activity with inhibition zones of 13 mm for S. aureus and 15 mm for E. coli, and high dye degradation efficiencies, rapidly breaking down malachite green (96% in 7 min), methyl violet (96% in 10 min) and methyl orange (86% in 10 min). These findings underline the SZ nanocomposite's potential in antimicrobial applications and environmental remediation, emphasizing its utility in sustainable technologies.