Effect of activated carbon on electrochemical and photocatalytic performance of hydrothermally synthesized zinc stannate nanoparticles

Zinc stannate (Zn₂SnO₄) nanoparticles were successfully loaded with activated carbon through a facile hydrothermal method using potassium hydroxide as a mineralizer. Ratio of zinc stannate and activated carbon was optimized by XRD analysis. Further morphological, optical and electrochemical properties were analyzed by field emission scanning electron microscope, high resolution transmission electron microscope, UV–Vis spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry analysis. Nitrogen adsorption–desorption isotherm study showed a high specific surface area of 142 m² g⁻¹ for Zn₂SnO₄ loaded activated carbon nanoparticles. Electrochemical studies indicate that loading with activated carbon enhances the electrochemical performance of Zn₂SnO₄ nanoparticles significantly. Finally, evaluation of photocatalytic properties by degrading methylene blue and methyl green dye in the presence of Zn₂SnO₄ nanoparticles and Zn₂SnO₄ nanoparticles loaded activated carbon as photocatalysts has been reported. Results divulge that activated carbon boosts the degradation rate of the photocatalyst. Hence, Zn₂SnO₄ nanoparticles loaded activated carbon can be a promising degrader for organic dyes as well as a potential material for super capacitor applications.