Novel Zinc Selenate Ternary Nanomaterial: Efficient Platform for Photocatalysis and Antibacterial Applications

Introduction

Ternary nanomaterials are increasingly receiving attention due to their unique heterostructures, which offer improved performance in various applications. Certain ternary nanomaterials exhibit well-defined compositions based on specific molecular formulas, whereas others are synthesized as doped systems, where one or more elements are partially substituted to tailor their properties. Ternary nanomaterials often display hybrid properties that are superior to those of their individual constituents, owing to synergistic interactions within the composite structure.

Methods

Stable zinc selenate (ZnSeO₄) ternary nanomaterials were synthesized via a simple one-pot solvothermal method using minimal precursors—zinc acetate dihydrate and selenium powder—in an ethylenediamine medium. This single-step, high-yield, and cost-effective approach enabled the efficient formation of a novel ZnSeO₄ ternary nanomaterial. The physico-chemical characteristics of the synthesized nanomaterial were thoroughly analyzed using advanced techniques including X-ray diffraction (XRD), diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Surface morphology and elemental composition were examined through scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (SEM–EDAX) and colour mapping. The photocatalytic efficiency of the ZnSeO₄ nanomaterial was assessed through the degradation of a representative textile dye pollutant. Antibacterial activity was evaluated against Escherichia coli, a major foodborne pathogen, using the agar well diffusion method.

Results

The material demonstrated approximately 70% degradation efficiency, while retaining its morphology post-photocatalysis. The nanomaterial exhibited significant inhibitory effects, with a 20 mm zone of inhibition, surpassing that of standard tetracycline (17 mm). Moreover, the panchromatic absorption of ZnSeO₄ suggests excellent light-harvesting efficiency. The presence of surface defects, verified through XPS, plays a crucial role in enhancing the photocatalytic performance of the ZnSeO₄ nanomaterial.

Conclusion

The multifunctional properties make ZnSeO₄ a promising candidate for eco-friendly applications, including its incorporation into porcelain floor tiles for self-cleaning, anti-pollutant, and antibacterial functions.