Zeolite supported CdS/TiO2/CeO2 composite: Synthesis, characterization and photocatalytic activity for methylene blue dye degradation

A novel ternary composite CdS/TiO2/CeO2 and its zeolite-support were synthesized and characterized using XRD, SEM, UV-Vis DRS and PL spectroscopy. The photocatalytic performance of the synthesized nanocomposites was investigated using an aqueous solution of Methylene Blue (MB) dye and a real sewage sample solution.The photocatalytic activity of the zeolite-supported composite was superior to the naked CdS/TiO2/CeO2, binary, and single counter constituents. The effect of operational parameters on MB dye degradation was evaluated, and a significant photodegradation was recorded by a zeolite-supported CdS/TiO2/CeO2 composite. The supported composite showed significantly higher performance on the discoloration of MB (99.9%) than the real sewage sample solution (78.7%) based on the optimized parameters. The recyclability study of the spent photocatalyst exhibited 86.0% degradation of MB after four consecutive cycles, indicating the stability of the composite. Based on the findings, this research offers insight into a new and efficient visible-light-driven photocatalyst for the degradation of organic dyes in wastewater.