Bifunctional performance of robust filter material based on biomimetically synthesized CeO₂/ZnO and nanolignin...

This research focuses on green approaches to utilize lignocellulosic waste for bioengineering metal-oxide NPs and material extraction. Herein, bifunctional performance of an innovative composite based on microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) supported multi metal-oxide (CeO₂/ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs) decorated with nano-lignin (L_NP) has been demonstrated for water reclamation. A series of CeO₂ZnOL_NP@MCC composites were successfully prepared by varying the proportions of CeO₂, ZnO and L_NP in the MCC bio-matrix. SEM analysis revealed that the biomimetic synthesis of NPs followed by incorporation into MCC facilitated their uniform distribution over MCC. FTIR and XRD studies confirmed successful integration of precursors in the cellulosic framework of MCC. Under optimal conditions, catalytic reduction of methylene blue solution using CeO₂ZnOL_NP@MCC-NaBH₄ system reached almost 100 % within 10-15 min at room temperature. Moreover, degradation efficiency of 84 % in real aqueous samples spiked with dye as well as robust performance in recyclability studies revealed that our designed system is more suitable for practical applications. Additionally, these composites exhibited appreciable antibacterial activities against P. aeruginosa and S. aureus pathogens. These results can be attributed to the unique synergy of metal NPs, L_NP and MCC in CeO₂ZnOL_NP@MCC heterostructure, signifying a promising bifunctional filter material for sustainable wastewater treatment.