Enhanced photocatalytic performance of (ZnO/CeO2)-β-CD system for the effective decolorization of Rhodamine B under UV light irradiation

In this work, we attempt a new approach for the study on photocatalytic ability of (ZnO/CeO2 ) improved by β-CD under UV light irradiation for the photodecolorization of RhB. The (ZnO/CeO2 ) composite was prepared by mixing ZnO with CeO2 in a weight ratio of 4:1. The surface interaction of (ZnO/CeO2 ) with β-CD was determined by characterizing their structural, morphological and optical properties. The formation of an inclusion complex between RhB dye and β-CD was confirmed by UV–visible spectral analyses. The photocatalytic activity of (ZnO/CeO2 )-β-CD system was evaluated by the decolorization of RhB dye in aqueous solution under UV light irradiation. The effects of operational parameters like the ratio of (ZnO/CeO2), initial concentration of dye, catalyst dose, irradiation time and pH have been analyzed. The photocatalytic decolorization of RhB follows pseudo-first order kinetics. The mineralization of RhB has been confirmed by COD measurements. A possible mechanism for the photocatalytic decolorization of RhB by (ZnO/CeO2 )-β-CD system under UV light irradiation was also discussed.