Breakthrough in Nanotechnology: Chitosan Zinc Nanocomposite Demonstrates High Photocatalytic Degradation Efficiency

Strategic Insights -

Researchers from the K.S. Rangasamy College of Technology have developed a chitosan zinc nanocomposite that exhibits high photocatalytic degradation efficiency, especially in the removal of harmful pollutants from the textile and pharmaceutical industries. This innovation has significant implications for environmental remediation and biomedical applications. The nanocomposite's ability to degrade pollutants at a rate of 98.7% in 90 minutes and 98.2% in 120 minutes showcases its potential in addressing environmental concerns.

Key Takeaways:

  • The chitosan zinc nanocomposite was synthesized using an extract derived from Chlorella sp. as a reducing agent, with a crystal size of 21 nm and an average particle size of 38.7 nm.
  • The nanocomposite achieved 98.7% degradation of methyl orange and 98.2% degradation of metformin in 90 minutes and 120 minutes, respectively.
  • The nanocomposite demonstrated maximum degradation efficiencies of 99.1% and 98.9% against methylene blue and rhodamine B dyes, respectively.
  • The antibacterials and antioxidant activity of the nanocomposite were evaluated, demonstrating superior performance compared to standard agents.
  • The nanocomposite exhibited stability and reusability over seven cycles.
  • The research highlights the multifunctional capabilities of chitosan zinc nanocomposite for environmental remediation and biomedical applications.

Statistics:

  • 98.7% degradation of methyl orange in 90 minutes
  • 98.2% degradation of metformin in 120 minutes
  • 99.1% degradation of methylene blue dye
  • 98.9% degradation of rhodamine B dye
  • 96.8% degradation of congo red dye
  • 95.5% degradation of eosin yellow dye

Sources:

  • Microalgae-based bio-fabrication using zinc oxide-chitosan nanocomposite for industrial effluent degradation and pollutant reduction. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2025;319:145379.
  • K.S. Rangasamy College of Technology Reports Findings in Nanocomposites (Microalgae-based bio-fabrication using zinc oxide-chitosan nanocomposite for industrial effluent degradation and pollutant reduction). Nanotechnology Weekly. July 7, 2025; p 2209.