Design and development of Co3O4/V2O5-carbon nanotube nanohybrids for improved photocatalytic performance

A hybrid photocatalytic system incorporating a multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) has been developed to enhance photocatalytic performance. This enhancement is attributed to improved electron conductivity, reduced recombination of electron–hole pairs, and increased surface area, which collectively promote more effective interactions between the photocatalyst and the target pollutants. The Co₃O₄/V₂O₅/MWCNT nanocomposite was fabricated via a wet impregnation approach. Analytical methods were employed to examine the synthesized samples’ phase purity, optical properties, and surface morphology. The Co₃O₄/V₂O₅/MWCNT nanocomposite exhibited to an improved photocatalytic efficiency compared to its constituents. Notably, it achieved a 93.27% degradation of methylene blue (MB) within 150 min. The degradation mechanism was examined through material characterization, photocatalytic activity assessments, and reactive species analysis. Morphological studies confirmed the successful deposition of Co₃O₄ nanorods and V₂O₅ nanoparticles on the MWCNT surface, while the formation of heterojunctions between Co₃O₄ and V₂O₅ facilitated more effective charge separation and transport. This study offers valuable insights into the application of Co₃O₄/V₂O₅/MWCNT as a visible-light-driven, high-efficiency photocatalyst with strong potential for ecological remediation.