Structural, optical, electrical properties and photocatalytic performance of Ni-Mg-Zn nano ferrites for tetracycline degradation

The enormous use of tetracycline in aquaculture, livestock, and the treatment of human diseases has culminated in a growing worldwide danger to aquatic and terrestrial biodiversity. Thus, the necessity for efficient methods of TC removal from water is critical. In this view, we propose Ni substituted Mg-Zn nano-ferrites as model photo catalyst for the treatment of tetracycline polluted water. Moreover, we concentrate on the electrical properties of synthesised ferrites to explore their multi sector applications. The synthesized catalysts were systematically characterized for structural, optical, and electrical properties with the help of XRD, FTIR, SEM, UV visible spectroscopy & dielectric measurements. The XRD analysis confirms the production of a single cubic phase structure and no secondary phases. The optical analysis revealed that Ni doping improves the absorbance capacity of Mg-Zn ferrites. FTIR spectra support the intrinsic vibration of metal ions at octahedral sites & tetrahedral sites. The analysis of frequency-dependent dielectric properties, including dielectric constant and dielectric loss, reveals the typical dielectric distribution that corresponds with the Maxwell-Wagner type interfacial polarization. The Ni doped Mg-Zn ferrite catalysts exhibit superior photo catalytic efficiency for tetracycline (TC) degradation as compared to Mg-Zn nano ferrite catalysts. The scavenging experiments revealed the role of holes and superoxide radicals as highly reactive species responsible for TC degradation.