LAUSR

Abstract The stability and porous nature of a nanocomplex are of importance for the practical utility like in adsorption or catalytic activities. Mesoporous Iron gallate (Fe-Ga) nanocomplex was fabricated by means of effective, simple, convenient and rapid solvothermal method using triethylamine as a deprotonating agent for the organic linkers. These nanocomplexes were then utilized as a catalyst for rapid degradation of cationic (Toluidine Blue (TB)) and anionic (Rose Bengal (RB)) dyes in water without employing any auxiliary oxidants like Hydrogen Peroxide (H2O2), Sodium Borohydride (NaBH4) etc. Analysis of the nanocomplex using various techniques like Powder XRD, N2 (Nitrogen) adsorption/desorption, UV–vis spectroscopy and electron microscopy revealed mesoporous (pore size =2.72 nm) structure with high surface area of 90.48 m2 g−1, uniform sizes of around 15–20 nm and outstanding adsorption and degradation properties. The nanocomplex adsorbed, decolorized and decomposed both the dyes within 10 min. Due to the negative zeta potential (14.6 ± 3.5) the particles preferably adsorb and degrade cationic dye (TB) because of the presence of positively charged amine groups. Furthermore, the catalyst is stable and reusable. The probable mechanism for the degradation has been proposed through advanced oxidation process. Such material releases reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as hydroxyl radicals and primarily responsible for the degradation of dyes at enhanced rate. Such advancement can be extended to other nanocomplexes to efficiently enhance their catalytic activities and hence may be envisaged as a method for removal of dyes for detoxification of waste water.