Unveiling the visible-light-driven photocatalytic aptitude of nanostructured MgO semiconductor synthesized using lemon peel extract

The green production of nanostructured semiconductive materials for potential use in wastewater treatment has garnered considerable interest from materials researchers. This work employs a green lemon peel extract-mediated method for the synthesis of nanostructured MgO abundant in oxygen vacancies. Characterization methods, including PXRD, TGA, and FTIR, were used to examine the crystal structure, necessary calcination temperature, and surface functions of the synthesized material. The shape and chemical composition abundant in oxygen vacancies were examined by electronic investigations using SEM, EDX and XPS. Optical analyses (UV/Vis and photoluminescence) assess the light absorption capacity and charge recombination potential of MgO. The photocatalytic effectiveness of the synthesized material was evaluated against crystal violet (CV) dye under visible light. The pH_PZC for the MgO sample was determined, followed by an analysis of the effect of pH on its catalytic activity. Cyclic testing and subsequent structural analysis confirmed the suitability of the created MgO sample for enduring applications. Quenching studies and ESR spectroscopy elucidate the predominant charge species and provide an appropriate mechanism for the degradation of CV dye on MgO. The exceptional degradation capability of the environmentally synthesized MgO against CV dye is attributable to the synergistic effects of its band gap, which is suitable for visible light absorption, a high surface area that accommodates a greater number of dye molecules, and the existence of oxygen-vacancies that obstruct the anticipated charge recombination manner. This study reveals the improved capabilities of metal-oxide semiconductors for diverse potential applications via the modification of their physicochemical features.