Hetero-structured NiFe2O4/g-C3N4 as dual-functional catalyst for the maximized photocatalytic degradation and electrochemical HER performance

The NiFe₂O₄/g‐C₃N₄ nanocomposite was synthesized through a facile one-step hydrothermal technique and thoroughly characterized using a variety of advanced instruments. The photocatalytic activity of the NiFe₂O₄/g‐C₃N₄ nanocomposite photocatalysts was tested for the degradation of Congo red when exposed to light irradiation. The NFCN nanocomposite demonstrated a photocatalytic activity of 90.42%, surpassing that of the pure NiFe₂O₄ and g‐C₃N₄ catalysts. The amended photocatalytic activity can be accredited to the creation of a NiFe₂O₄/g‐C₃N₄ heterostructure, leading to effective spatial separation of photogenerated charge carriers. The NFCN nanocomposite photocatalyst demonstrated remarkable stability following seven consecutive cycles. Furthermore, the engineered NFCN nanocomposite coated NF electrode demonstrates a substantial augmentation in the HER activity when compared to pristine g-C₃N₄ and NiFe₂O₄ nanosheets, attributed to the unique structure and synergistic interaction between g-C₃N₄ and NiFe₂O₄. The NFCN-100 nanocomposite coated NF electrode generates a current density of 10 mA/cm² at a small overpotential and demonstrates remarkable durability in alkaline (1 M KOH) conditions for 24 h, with negligible activity decrement.