Fe3O4/ZnO/Si3N4 nanocomposite based photocatalyst for the degradation of dyes from aqueous solution.

• Nanocomposite based photocatalyst is designed. • Nanocomposite demonstrated high degradation activity under visible light. • Photodegradation of dyes with degradation rate of 90–96%. • High reusability. Highly visible light efficient photocatalyst; ferric oxide/zinc oxide/silicon nitride (Fe 3 O 4 /ZnO/Si 3 N 4) nanocomposite has been designed. Its photocatalytic activity has been studied for the degradation of two dyes; sunset yellow and methyl orange from aqueous solution. Results showed high degradation rate of 90 and 96% for sunset yellow and methyl orange, respectively. Scavenging studies indicated the major involvement of OH radicals in the degradation process. Reusability study has been conducted for 6 consecutive cycles indicating its appreciable activity even after repetitive cycles. Antimicrobial activity studied against E. Coli and Pseudomonas strains showed an appreciable inhibition zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]