Synergistic photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue and ibuprofen using Co₃O₄-Decorated hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) composites under Sun-like irradiation

Bouziani M., Bouziani A., Hsini A., Bianchi C. L., Falletta E., Di Michele A., ...More

Chemosphere, vol.371, 2025 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 371
  • Publication Date: 2025
  • Doi Number: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2025.144061
  • Journal Name: Chemosphere
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Academic Search Premier, PASCAL, Aerospace Database, Aqualine, Aquatic Science & Fisheries Abstracts (ASFA), Artic & Antarctic Regions, BIOSIS, Biotechnology Research Abstracts, CAB Abstracts, Chemical Abstracts Core, Chimica, Communication Abstracts, Compendex, EMBASE, Environment Index, Food Science & Technology Abstracts, Geobase, Greenfile, Metadex, Pollution Abstracts, Public Affairs Index, Veterinary Science Database, Civil Engineering Abstracts
  • Keywords: Co3O4, Degradation, hBN, Ibuprofen, methylene blue, Nanocomposite, Sunlight irradiation
  • Middle East Technical University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

In this study, we report the synthesis and photocatalytic performance of Co₃O₄-decorated hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) composites for degrading methylene blue (MB) and ibuprofen (IBF) under sunlight irradiation. Using a dry impregnation method, the composites were prepared with varying Co₃O₄ loadings (0.5%, 1%, 2%). Comprehensive characterization confirmed the successful incorporation and uniform distribution of Co₃O₄ on the hBN matrix. Photocatalytic experiments revealed that 1% Co₃O₄-hBN composite exhibited the highest activity, achieving nearly 100% MB degradation in 60 min and 90% IBF degradation in 120 min. The enhanced photocatalytic efficiency is attributed to the synergistic effects between Co₃O₄ and hBN, which extend light absorption and promote charge separation. Our findings demonstrate the potential of Co3O₄-decorated hBN composites as effective photocatalysts for environmental remediation. The study provides a foundation for further exploration of these materials, including their long-term stability and application to a broader range of pollutants.