Zeolite supported CdS/TiO2/CeO2 composite: Synthesis, characterization and photocatalytic activity for methylene blue dye degradation

A novel ternary composite CdS/TiO2/CeO2 and its zeolite-support were synthesized and characterized using XRD, SEM, UV–Vis DRS and PL spectroscopy. The photocatalytic performance of the synthesized nanocomposites was investigated using an aqueous solution of Methylene Blue (MB) dye and a real sewage sample solution.The photocatalytic activity of the zeolite-supported composite was superior to the naked CdS/TiO2/CeO2, binary, and single counter constituents. The effect of operational parameters on MB dye degradation was evaluated, and a significant photodegradation was recorded by a zeolite-supported CdS/TiO2/CeO2 composite. The supported composite showed significantly higher performance on the discoloration of MB (99.9%) than the real sewage sample solution (78.7%) based on the optimized parameters. The recyclability study of the spent photocatalyst exhibited 86.0% degradation of MB after four consecutive cycles, indicating the stability of the composite. Based on the findings, this research offers insight into a new and efficient visible-light-driven photocatalyst for the degradation of organic dyes in wastewater.