Biosynthesis of Gold-and Silver-Incorporated Carbon-Based Zinc Oxide Nanocomposites for the Photodegradation of Textile Dyes and Various Pharmaceuticals

: Wastewater contaminated with dyes from the textile industry has been at the forefront in the last few decades, thus, it is imperative to find treatment methods that are safe and efficient. In this study, C. benghalensis plant extracts were used to synthesise by mass 20 mg/80 mg zinc oxide–carbon spheres (20/80 ZnO–CSs) nanocomposites, and the incorporation of the nanocomposites with 1% silver (1% Ag–ZnO–CSs) and 1% gold (1% Au–ZnO–CSs) was conducted. The impact of Ag and Au dopants on the morphological, optical, and photocatalytic properties of these nanocomposites in comparison to 20/80 ZnO–CSs was investigated. TEM, XRD, UV-vis, FTIR, TGA, and BET revealed various properties for these nanocomposites. TEM analysis revealed spherical particles with size distributions of 40–80 nm, 50–200 nm, and 50–250 nm for 1% Ag–ZnO–CSs, 1% Au–ZnO–CSs, and 20/80 ZnO–CSs, respectively. XRD data showed peaks corresponding to Ag, Au, ZnO, and CSs in all nanocomposites. TGA analysis reported a highly thermally stable material in ZnO-CS. The photocatalytic testing showed the 1% Au–ZnO–CSs to be the most efficient catalyst with a 98% degradation for MB textile dye. Moreover, 1% Au–ZnO–CSs also exhibited high degradation percentages for various pharmaceuticals. The material could not be reused and the trapping studies demonstrated that both OH • radicals and the e − play a crucial role in the degradation of the MB. The photocatalyst in this study demonstrated effectiveness and high flexibility in degrading diverse contaminants.


Introduction
Water pollution is recognised as one of the major global environmental challenges contributing to water scarcity in various nations worldwide [1,2].Despite the availability of current water treatment techniques, the detection of additional contaminants, such as textile dyes and pharmaceutical drugs, has increased in natural water sources.This increase persists each year with the identification of new contaminants [3].While water contains a diverse range of contaminants, biological, organic, and inorganic, the literature indicates that organic contaminants pose a more significant challenge due to their non-biodegradable nature [4][5][6].The textile industry significantly contributes to environmental water contamination by releasing wastewater containing dyes [7,8].Even in low concentrations, the existence of these dyes is evident and undesirable in water [9].These organic contaminants can find their way into human consumption through polluted water sources or the food chain, posing mutagenic risks to humans and harmful effects on aquatic ecosystems [10,11].
Methylene blue (MB) is a cationic textile dye utilised for biological staining and colouring various materials such as paper, hair, cotton, and wool [12].Originally formulated  [13,14].It has been identified as a cationic dye categorised as a toxic colourant and has been associated with adverse effects [15].The presence of methylene blue in wastewater can lead to health issues, including respiratory problems, vomiting, eye irritation, diarrhoea, and nausea [12].Human exposure or ingestion of methylene blue may result in various symptoms, including mental disorders [14][15][16][17].
To address the removal of such contaminants from water streams, various methods have been employed, including chlorination, reverse osmosis, adsorption, and electrochemical degradation [18][19][20][21][22][23][24].However, these methods often have limitations such as the generation of large quantities of sludge, by-product formation, high operational costs, and limited selectivity.Recently, photocatalysis has gained popularity as a highly recommended method for degrading diverse pollutants [25].Photocatalysts like zinc oxide (ZnO), titanium dioxide (TiO 2 ), iron oxide (Fe 2 O 3 ), etc. have proven successful at degrading contaminants in water [26][27][28].ZnO was chosen for this study because it is highly efficient in degrading various pollutants, possesses numerous active sites, and exhibits effective radicals on its surfaces during the photodegradation process [29,30].Nevertheless, ZnO exhibits a high recombination rate, limited surface area, and a wide bandgap measuring 3.2 eV [31][32][33].Materials containing carbon are extensively utilised as adsorbents and serve as a foundation for incorporating inorganic nanomaterials to enhance mechanical and thermal stability, as well as to augment the adsorption capacity of metal oxides such as ZnO [34,35].The motivation behind depositing metal oxide nanocomposites onto carbon nanomaterials of diverse shapes stems from numerous literature reports on carbon nanomaterials dating back to their discovery in 1991 by Ijima [36].These carbon nanomaterials are recognised for their thermal stability, photoelectric properties (dots), and mesoporosity, resulting in a substantial surface area for the materials [37,38].Additionally, noble metals were reported to slow the rate of e − /h + recombination, while also broadening the absorption spectrum of metal oxides [39][40][41][42].Silver (Ag) has been reported to be less expensive, easily doped, and to have high conductivity and light absorption capacity [43,44].Gold (Au) has higher electron affinity, and it is known to collect photogenerated electrons during ZnO photoexcitation, increasing photocatalytic efficiency [45][46][47].According to the literature, doping metal oxides with Ag and Au has increased the photocurrent response, ultraviolet and visible light photocatalytic activity, and photocatalytic efficiency [48][49][50].
Additionally, the preparation process for these ZnO nanomaterials often involves harmful reactants as reducing and capping agents, leading to impurities in the synthesised materials due to the addition of various chemical promoters [39,48].Therefore, it is crucial to develop an eco-friendly and inexpensive method for preparing ZnO that avoids the use of harmful reactants.In this study, the synthesis of Ag/Au-ZnO-C was through an environmentally friendly route, using the Commelina benghalensis plant extract.
These methods are simple, not harmful to the environment, and cheap, replacing harmful reagents with natural reducing agents from plant extracts, bacteria, algae, etc. [39].Biosynthesised metal oxides resulting from these methods have been reported to effectively degrade various pollutants.Various studies were conducted and Niu et al. [40] utilised Ag/ZnO@C-2 to demonstrate the highest efficiency in photodegrading RhB, achieving a ~98% degradation in 40 min under simulated sunlight.The photodegradation rate of Ag/ZnO@C-2 was almost ten times that of pure ZnO, providing quantitative evidence for its exceptional photocatalytic performance.In another study, Chen et al. [41] revealed a photodegradation efficiency of 87.4% for Orange II dye while utilising the of Au/C-ZnO photocatalyst, surpassing the corresponding degradation of 82.1% by the C-ZnO photocatalyst.These studies highlight the effect of carbon and Ag in trapping and increasing the surface area, facilitating more active sites on the material.Therefore, the objective of this study was to dope environmentally friendly C-ZnO materials with noble metals for treating wastewater effluents to acceptable levels for both animal and human health.Therefore, the 20/80 ZnO-CSs was doped with optimised 1% Ag and 1% Au separately and then their efficiency was tested against MB textile dye and various pharmaceutical pollutants.

Chemicals and Materials
All the chemicals employed in this study were of analytical grade and were used in their original state.The C. benghalensis plant was sourced from the University of Limpopo field, subsequently dried, and ground at the Chemistry Department of the University of Limpopo.Zinc nitrate hexahydrate (Zn(NO 3 ) 2 •6H 2 O), orthophosphoric acid (H 3 PO 4 ), Silver nitrate (AgNO 3 ) and Gold (III) chloride trihydrate (HAuCl 4 •3H 2 O) were procured from Sigma Aldrich, Darmstadt, Germany.Sucrose (C 12 H 22 O 11 ), Sulfamethoxazole (SMX), Ciprofloxacin (CIP), and Carbamazepine (CBZ) were all purchased at Protea Labs, Midrand, South Africa.Sulfisoxazole (SSX) and methylene blue (MB) were acquired from the University of Limpopo's Department of Chemistry Chemical Store Room.

Preparation of Plant Extracts
The Commelina benghalensis (C.benghalensis) plant extracts were prepared utilising the tea infusion method [42].A quantity of 10 g of crushed C. benghalensis powder was measured and placed in a 500 mL conical flask with 250 mL of boiling deionised water.The mixture was heated at 80 • C for 15 min until a green-brownish colour emerged.Following cooling to room temperature, the C. benghalensis extract was obtained through vacuum filtration using Munktell filter paper with a 45 mm diameter.The resultant extracts were stored in a refrigerator at 4 • C for subsequent characterisation and application.

C. benghalensis-Mediated ZnO Nanoparticle Synthesis
The eco-friendly synthesis of ZnO-NPs commenced with the measurement of 4 g of Zn (NO 3 ) 2 6H 2 O salt, which was added to 250 mL conical flasks according to the procedure outlined by Munyai et al. [43].Subsequently, 50 mL of the plant extract was introduced into each flask containing the Zn salt, resulting in a brownish-yellowish solution.The mixture was then boiled for an hour, followed by cooling to room temperature, transferred to a crucible, and overnight heating in an oven at 80 • C. The resulting product was washed with deionised water, filtered using a membrane filtration system, subjected to calcination at 700 • C for 2 h, and subsequently collected, crushed, and stored for subsequent analysis.

Preparation of Carbon Spheres (CSs)
For the production of carbon spheres (CSs), 2 g of sucrose was dissolved in 10 mL of deionised water, and then 20 mL of orthophosphoric acid was added.The resulting mixture underwent microwaving (1000 W) for three minutes.The resulting black product was subjected to five cycles of centrifugation at 4000 rpm for five minutes each, followed by drying in an oven at 80 • C. The resultant carbon was subsequently crushed for subsequent use and characterisations [44].

Preparation of Carbon Spheres-Incorporated (ZnO-CSs) Nanocomposites
The preparation of 20/80 (ZnO-CSs) nanocomposites utilised the ultrasonication method [45].Initially, as-prepared ZnO-NPs (20 mg) were separately combined with carbon spheres (80 mg).These mixtures were then dispersed in 100 mL of distilled water, and the resulting dispersions underwent ultrasonic treatment for 1 h to achieve a uniform suspension of 20/80 ZnO-CSs.The resultant suspensions were subsequently filtered, washed with distilled water, and dried in an oven at 100 • C for 12 h.The materials were stored for subsequent analysis and characterisation.

Preparation of Metal-Doped ZnO-CSs Composites
Initially, 0.5 g of 20/80 ZnO-CSs was added to 50 mL of 1% AgNO 3 solution and 1% HAuCl 4 •3H 2 O solution separately.The solutions were magnetically stirred for 1 h, followed by the addition of 50 mL of C. benghalensis extract to each solution, and heating up to 80 • C for 2 h as shown in Scheme 1 [46].The resulting product was washed and further dried in a vacuum oven at 100 • C for 2 h, and stored for further characterisation and investigation.
For the production of carbon spheres (CSs), 2 g of sucrose was dissolved in 10 mL of deionised water, and then 20 mL of orthophosphoric acid was added.The resulting mixture underwent microwaving (1000 W) for three minutes.The resulting black product was subjected to five cycles of centrifugation at 4000 rpm for five minutes each, followed by drying in an oven at 80 °C.The resultant carbon was subsequently crushed for subsequent use and characterisations [44].

Preparation of Carbon Spheres-Incorporated (ZnO−CSs) Nanocomposites
The preparation of 20/80 (ZnO−CSs) nanocomposites utilised the ultrasonication method [45].Initially, as-prepared ZnO-NPs (20 mg) were separately combined with carbon spheres (80 mg).These mixtures were then dispersed in 100 mL of distilled water, and the resulting dispersions underwent ultrasonic treatment for 1 h to achieve a uniform suspension of 20/80 ZnO−CSs.The resultant suspensions were subsequently filtered, washed with distilled water, and dried in an oven at 100 °C for 12 h.The materials were stored for subsequent analysis and characterisation.

Preparation of Metal-Doped ZnO−CSs Composites
Initially, 0.5 g of 20/80 ZnO−CSs was added to 50 mL of 1% AgNO3 solution and 1% HAuCl4•3H2O solution separately.The solutions were magnetically stirred for 1 h, followed by the addition of 50 mL of C. benghalensis extract to each solution, and heating up to 80 °C for 2 h as shown in Scheme 1 [46].The resulting product was washed and further dried in a vacuum oven at 100 °C for 2 h, and stored for further characterisation and investigation.

Analysis of Materials
To evaluate the optical properties and dye substance concentration of the synthesised materials, an Agilent Cary 100 UV-Vis Varian spectrophotometer was employed.Samples were placed in a 10 mm path length cuvette, and 5 mL were withdrawn at regular intervals for spectral analysis.The crystallinity and phase composition were determined using a Bruker AXS D8 Advance X-ray Diffractometer (Germany), scanning in the range of 20-90 2θ degrees over a 2 h period.Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was utilised to analyse the morphology and particle size of the samples.Electron dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) was conducted for elemental and chemical analysis.The Bruner-Emmet-Teller (BET) surface analyser was used at 196 • C to measure pore sizes, surface area, and pore volume, with the sample heated to 150 • C for 2 h under N 2 gas flow.For the thermal stability Textiles 2024, 4 108 assessment, a Perkin Elmer Pyris Thermogravimetric Analyser (TGA) was employed, heating approximately 0.01 g of the material at a rate of 10 • C/min up to 900 • C.

Photocatalytic Decomposition of MB Dye
Firstly, optimisation experiments were explored using the 20/80 ZnO-CSs photocatalyst (Section S1).The optimum pH of 5, photocatalyst dosage of 90 mg, and concentration of 5 ppm (MB) were utilised for all the photocatalytic studies (20/80 ZnO-CSs.1% Ag-ZnO-CSs and 1% Au-ZnO-CSs) of the current work.In a typical photocatalytic experiment, about 300 mL of a 5 ppm methylene blue (MB) solution at pH 5 was combined with 90 mg of photocatalyst (20/80 ZnO-CSs).Then, 1% Ag-ZnO-CSs and 1% Au-ZnO-CSs powder were tranferred to a photochemical reactor.The mixture was stirred in the absence of light for approximately 30 min to attain adsorption-desorption equilibrium.Following this, the solution was subjected to UV light (450 W) for a duration of 2 h, with samples collected at 30 min intervals for analysis using a UV-vis spectrophotometer.The progress of degradation was monitored by measuring the absorbance at the maximum wavelength of 665 nm for MB.The degradation efficiency was then calculated using the formula: where A o = is the initial absorbance at 0 min (adsorption-desorption), A f = is the final absorbance 30, 60, 90, and 120 min of photodegradation 2.9.1.Reusability In order to evaluate the robustness and reusability of the 1% Au-ZnO-CSs nanocomposite, four recycling trials were conducted under conditions similar to those utilised in standard photocatalytic degradation trials.Following each cycle, the photocatalyst was thoroughly washed with distilled water and was recovered through membrane filtration.Afterwards, the material was dried at 60 • C to obtain a powder for the following cycle.

Trapping Studies
In the course of photodegradation of MB dye, 2 mL (5 mmol) each of EDTA, isopropyl alcohol, silver nitrate, and p-benzoquinone were introduced to capture holes (h + ), hydroxyl radicals (OH•), electrons (e − ), and superoxide (O 2 2− ), respectively.The photodegradation conditions employed were similar to those applied in standard photocatalytic degradation assessments.

Photocatalytic Degradation of Pharmaceuticals
For the degradation of SSX/SMX/CIP/CBZ pharmaceuticals, 90 mg of photocatalyst was introduced into a 300 mL solution with a concentration of 5 ppm (pH 5).Before UV exposure, the solution underwent stirring for 30 min to establish adsorption-desorption equilibrium.The photodegradation process extended over 2 h, and samples were collected at 0, 30, 60, 90, and 120 min.The residual concentrations of SSX/SMX/CIP/CBZ were analysed using a UV/vis spectrophotometer at λmax = 275-290 nm.The degradation efficiency was then calculated using the formula: where A o = the initial absorbance (before photodegradation) of SSX/SMX/CIP and CBZ at λ max = 290/280/285 and 290 nm, A f = is the final absorbance after photodegradation/adsorption.

Plant Extract Analysis by LC-MS
The molecular weights of components within the C. benghalensis extract were determined through LC-MS analysis.The examination identified the existence of eleven potential compounds in the plant extract, as outlined in Table 1.

Plant Extract Analysis by LC-MS
The molecular weights of components within the C. benghalensis extract were determined through LC-MS analysis.The examination identified the existence of eleven potential compounds in the plant extract, as outlined in Table 1.  1 presents a summary of the LC-MS data regarding some of the potential compounds identified in C. benghalensis plant extracts.The LC-MS analysis revealed the presence of compounds such as alkaloids, esters, phenols, carboxylic acids, etc.The mass-tocharge ratio (m/z) derived from the coupled LC-MS data were utilised to generate the potential organic structures detailed in the Table 1.The data highlight the elevated presence where Ao = the initial absorbance (before photodegradation) of SSX/SMX/CIP and CBZ at λmax = 290/280/285 and 290 nm, Af = is the final absorbance after photodegradation/adsorption.

Plant Extract Analysis by LC-MS
The molecular weights of components within the C. benghalensis extract were determined through LC-MS analysis.The examination identified the existence of eleven potential compounds in the plant extract, as outlined in Table 1.  1 presents a summary of the LC-MS data regarding some of the potential compounds identified in C. benghalensis plant extracts.The LC-MS analysis revealed the presence of compounds such as alkaloids, esters, phenols, carboxylic acids, etc.The mass-tocharge ratio (m/z) derived from the coupled LC-MS data were utilised to generate the potential organic structures detailed in the Table 1.The data highlight the elevated presence where Ao = the initial absorbance (before photodegradation) of SSX/SMX/CIP and CBZ at λmax = 290/280/285 and 290 nm, Af = is the final absorbance after photodegradation/adsorption.

Plant Extract Analysis by LC-MS
The molecular weights of components within the C. benghalensis extract were determined through LC-MS analysis.The examination identified the existence of eleven potential compounds in the plant extract, as outlined in Table 1.  1 presents a summary of the LC-MS data regarding some of the potential compounds identified in C. benghalensis plant extracts.The LC-MS analysis revealed the presence of compounds such as alkaloids, esters, phenols, carboxylic acids, etc.The mass-tocharge ratio (m/z) derived from the coupled LC-MS data were utilised to generate the potential organic structures detailed in the Table 1.The data highlight the elevated presence where Ao = the initial absorbance (before photodegradation) of SSX/SMX/CIP and CBZ at λmax = 290/280/285 and 290 nm, Af = is the final absorbance after photodegradation/adsorption.

Plant Extract Analysis by LC-MS
The molecular weights of components within the C. benghalensis extract were determined through LC-MS analysis.The examination identified the existence of eleven potential compounds in the plant extract, as outlined in Table 1.  1 presents a summary of the LC-MS data regarding some of the potential compounds identified in C. benghalensis plant extracts.The LC-MS analysis revealed the presence of compounds such as alkaloids, esters, phenols, carboxylic acids, etc.The mass-tocharge ratio (m/z) derived from the coupled LC-MS data were utilised to generate the potential organic structures detailed in the Table 1.The data highlight the elevated presence where Ao = the initial absorbance (before photodegradation) of SSX/SMX/CIP and CBZ at λmax = 290/280/285 and 290 nm, Af = is the final absorbance after photodegradation/adsorption.

Plant Extract Analysis by LC-MS
The molecular weights of components within the C. benghalensis extract were determined through LC-MS analysis.The examination identified the existence of eleven potential compounds in the plant extract, as outlined in Table 1.

Plant Extract Analysis by LC-MS
The molecular weights of components within the C. benghalensis extract were determined through LC-MS analysis.The examination identified the existence of eleven potential compounds in the plant extract, as outlined in Table 1.  1 presents a summary of the LC-MS data regarding some of the potential compounds identified in C. benghalensis plant extracts.The LC-MS analysis revealed the presence of compounds such as alkaloids, esters, phenols, carboxylic acids, etc.The mass-tocharge ratio (m/z) derived from the coupled LC-MS data were utilised to generate the potential organic structures detailed in the Table 1.The data highlight the elevated presence Table 1 presents a summary of the LC-MS data regarding some of the potential compounds identified in C. benghalensis plant extracts.The LC-MS analysis revealed the presence of compounds such as alkaloids, esters, phenols, carboxylic acids, etc.The massto-charge ratio (m/z) derived from the coupled LC-MS data were utilised to generate the potential organic structures detailed in the Table 1.The data highlight the elevated presence of OH groups in C. benghalensis plant extracts, primarily originating from alkaloids, carboxylic acids, and polyphenols.Additionally, in our previous study [47], we performed qualitative tests on the C. benghalensis plant extracts, and the presence of terpenoids, glycosides, phenols, alkaloids, tannins, phlobatannins, and anthraquinones was reported.These constituents exhibit biological activity and have the potential to assist in the treatment of various water pollutants.For example, Mallikarjunaswamy et al. [1] reported that the presence of terpenoids and phenolic compounds on Indian bael fruits-mediated ZnO played roles of both antioxidants and reducing agents.Suresh et al. [5] reported on Cassia fistula plant extract-mediated ZnO nanomaterials.The analysis revealed that the extract contained reducing and antioxidant agents, notably polyphenols (11%) and flavonoids (12.5%).Interestingly, Sharma et al. [6] synthesised Ficus palmate-mediated ZnO nanomaterials, which exhibited better antioxidant and antibacterial activity as compared to the Ficus palmate plant extract.cosides, phenols, alkaloids, tannins, phlobatannins, and anthraquinones was re These constituents exhibit biological activity and have the potential to assist in th ment of various water pollutants.For example, Mallikarjunaswamy et al. [1] repor the presence of terpenoids and phenolic compounds on Indian bael fruits-mediat played roles of both antioxidants and reducing agents.Suresh et al. [5] reported on fistula plant extract-mediated ZnO nanomaterials.The analysis revealed that the contained reducing and antioxidant agents, notably polyphenols (11%) and flav (12.5%).Interestingly, Sharma et al. [6] synthesised Ficus palmate-mediated ZnO materials, which exhibited better antioxidant and antibacterial activity as compare Ficus palmate plant extract.[55][56][57].The crystallite sizes for 1% Ag-ZnO-CSs and 1% Au-ZnO-CSs were measured at 15.9 and 5.4 nm, respectively.Notably, the data reveal a significant phase transformation in CSs, evident in the 20/80 ZnO-CSs XRD diffractogram, which exhibits a broad peak aligned with the 002 plane of carbon, signifying an amorphous phase.In contrast, the 1% Ag-ZnO-CSs and 1% Au-ZnO-CSs nanocomposites exhibit a more crystalline peak on the same plane for CSs material, suggesting an impact of the doping procedure involving high-temperature conditions [56].Intriguingly, the peaks associated with noble metals (Ag and Au) are more pronounced and well-defined compared to those of ZnO and CSs in the 1% Ag-ZnO-CSs and Au-ZnO-CSs, indicating the successful doping of these metals onto the ZnO-CSs [55].

Optical Properties
To gather insights into the optical characteristics of these materials, Figure 2a,b illustrates the UV-DRS analyses of the 20/80 ZnO-CSs, 1% Ag-ZnO-CSs, and 1% Au-ZnO-CSs, with Tauc's plots employed for interpretation.In the spectrum, the 20/80 ZnO-CSs nanocomposites exhibit absorption bands at approximately 301 nm and 287 nm, attributed to ZnO and CSs, respectively.The 1% Ag-ZnO-CSs display absorption bands at 298 nm and 286 nm, corresponding to the absorption peaks of Ag and ZnO-CSs, respectively [58][59][60].The presence of Ag induces a blue-shift in the absorbance spectrum, with the maximum absorbance peak for Ag-ZnO-CSs at 298 nm instead of ~301 nm.The surface Plasmon band of the 1% Ag-ZnO-CSs composite exhibits a distinctive broadening attributed to robust interfacial electronic coupling between adjacent ZnO and Ag nanoparticles [61].
This Plasmon oscillation has the potential to amplify light scattering by facilitating the interaction between incident light and Ag nanoparticles.Consequently, this extends the optical path, contributing to a reduction in light energy loss.Previous studies have reported an absorbance band at 379 nm, corresponding to the ZnO absorption peak, and the Ag NPs peak at 402 nm [58].The corresponding bandgap for 1% Ag-ZnO-CSs was determined to be 3.75 eV by extrapolating the linear region of Tauc's plot [62].This value is slightly higher than the 3.33 eV bandgap reported by Kotlhao et al. [59].The inconsistency can be attributed to the UV activity of the nanocomposites synthesised in this study, while those obtained by Kadam et al. [58] and Kotlhao et al. [59] were active in the visible region.
A band at approximately 290 nm was detected in the 1% Au-ZnO-CSs, confirming the presence of gold in the ZnO-CSs material [63,64].The shift observed in the ZnO band position in the 1% Au-ZnO-CSs nanoparticles can be explained by the higher electronegativity of gold compared to silver.Gold's elevated electronegativity results in a stronger attraction of electron density towards itself, influencing the positional shift of the ZnO band [63].However, the recorded absorption band was smaller than those documented in the literature.Fageria et al. [63] identified two bands at 378 nm and 560 nm, where the 378 nm position corresponds to ZnO presence, and the other band indicates the formation of gold nanoparticles.Gogurla et al. [64] reported two peaks-one in the UV region around 380 nm and another in the visible region around 550 nm.The UV peak is ascribed to ZnO's band edge absorption, while the visible peak is attributed to the surface Plasmon absorption of gold nanoparticles.Liu et al. [65] observed a red-shift in two characteristic gold plasma resonance peaks from 522 to 530 nm for pure gold nanoparticles coated with ZnO nanopyramids, indicating the presence of gold nanoparticles surrounded by high-refractive-index ZnO shells.
The bandgap of 1% Au-ZnO-CSs was determined to be 3.79 eV, which is larger than the 3.12 eV bandgap reported by Fageria et al. [63].Thi et al. [61] found a bandgap of 2.92 eV for Au/ZnO/GO, and Chang et al. [66] reported a bandgap of 3.02 eV for Au-ZnO-C.The presence of gold nanoparticles likely played a significant role in the optical properties of the materials, causing a shift to the lower UV region and higher bandgaps compared to materials active in the visible region, as reported by Fageria et al. [63] and Gogurla et al. [64].

TGA Analysis
Figure 3 illustrates the TGA curves for 20/80 ZnO-CSs, 1% Ag-ZnO-CSs, and 1% Au-ZnO-CSs.In the temperature range of 0 to 200 • C, both 1% Ag-ZnO-CSs and 1% Au-ZnO-CSs exhibit a gradual weight loss of 4.3% and 4.9%, respectively.This gradual weight loss suggests the evaporation of volatile substances and water from the samples [66,67].The second stage of weight loss, occurring between 200 and 400 • C, accounts for approximately 20% of the total weight loss.This stage indicates the removal of hydroxyl groups within the structures of 1% Ag-ZnO-CSs and 1% Au-ZnO-CSs [68][69][70][71].In the final stage, spanning from 400 to 900 • C, the total weight loss reaches 64.3% for 1% Ag-ZnO-CSs and 69.6% for 1% Au-ZnO-CSs.These findings suggest that 1% Ag-ZnO-CSs exhibits greater thermal stability than 1% Au-ZnO-CSs.Additionally, both materials show less stability than 20/80 ZnO-CSs, where the total weight percentages at 900 • C are approximately 54.2%, 36.4%, and 29.7% for 20/80 ZnO-CSs, 1% Ag-ZnO-CSs, and 1% Au-ZnO-CSs, respectively.These results align with those reported by Ramesan et al. [70], who observed a weight loss of 74.2% at 700 • C for Ag-doped ZnO-C material.The TGA curve of Au-decorated ZnO-PANI prepared by Bonyani et al. [72] showed a 25% weight loss from 0 to 700 • C, which is comparable to the findings in this study.

Morphological and Elemental Analysis of Nanocomposites
The transmission electron microscope (TEM) technique can be used to verify the incorporation of 1% Ag−ZnO−CSs and 1% Au−ZnO−CSs. Figure 4a-i

Morphological and Elemental Analysis of Nanocomposites
The transmission electron microscope (TEM) technique can be used to verify the incorporation of 1% Ag-ZnO-CSs and 1% Au-ZnO-CSs. Figure 4a-i shows the TEM micrographs of the obtained 20/80 ZnO-CSs, 1% Ag-ZnO-CSs, and 1% Au-ZnO-CSs nanomaterials.The prepared 1% Ag-ZnO-CSs had spherically shaped particles with length Textiles 2024, 4 113 distributions ranging from 20 to 100 nm, with the most dominant particles ranging from 40 to 80 nm.While the prepared 1% Au-ZnO-CSs had spherically shaped particles with length distributions ranging from 50 to 400 nm, with the most dominant particles ranging from 50 to 250 nm.The particle sizes of the noble metal-doped nanocomposites were smaller 20/80 ZnO-CSs with particle size distributions between 50 and 250 nm.The 1% Ag-ZnO-CSs obtained in the study were almost the same size as the Ag-ZnO flowerlike nanostructures obtained by Patil et al. [73] which were 70 nm.The Au-ZnO obtained by Majhi et al. [57], were reported to be 100 nm.To further confirm the deposition of the noble metals, EDS was also conducted (see Figure S1).There was indeed a successful deposition of Au and Ag in the nanomaterials.

N2 Adsorption-Desorption Studies, BJH Pore Volume, and BET Surface Area
The analysis of N2 adsorption-desorption was conducted to explore the impact of noble metal incorporation on the surface area and porosity of the ZnO−CSs.The Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) method was employed for specific surface area calcula- To further confirm the deposition of the noble metals, EDS was also conducted (see Figure S1).There was indeed a successful deposition of Au and Ag in the nanomaterials.

N 2 Adsorption-Desorption Studies, BJH Pore and BET Surface Area
The analysis of N 2 adsorption-desorption was conducted to explore the impact of noble metal incorporation on the surface area and porosity of the ZnO-CSs.The Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) method was employed for specific surface area calculations.Figure 5a illustrates the N 2 adsorption-desorption isotherm, while Figure 5b displays the BJH pore size distribution curves, and Figure 5c presents the BET surface area curves for the 20/80 ZnO-CSs, 1% Ag-ZnO-CSs, and 1% Au-ZnO-CSs.The BET surface area values (Figure 5c) were 21.95 m 2 /g, 10.799 m 2 /g, and 20.106 m 2 /g for 1% Ag-ZnO-CSs, 1% Au-ZnO-CSs, and 20/80 ZnO-CSs, respectively.The adsorption-desorption isotherms of 1% Ag-ZnO-CSs (Figure 5a) can be categorised as a typical type IV isotherm with a hysteresis loop H3 in accordance with IUPAC nomenclature, indicating a purely mesoporous material with small pore sizes [74][75][76].The isotherms for 1% Au-ZnO-CSs and 20/80 ZnO-CSs exhibited hysteresis loops of type H2 (Figure 5a), indicating a mixture of macropores and mesopores [77,78].Figure 5b depicts the pore size distribution measured by the BJH (Barrett-Joyner-Halenda) desorption hysteresis loop.The type IV hysteresis loop of the adsorption-desorption curves suggests the presence of mesoporous particles, even at high relative pressures (P/Po), with a hysteresis loop showing decreasing adsorption and a moderately sharp desorption branch [76].

Photodegradation Studies
To investigate whether the deposition of noble metals on ZnO-CSs enhances dye degradation, analyses of UV-vis photodegradation curves were conducted.In the proposed degradation mechanism depicted in Scheme 2, when light interacts with 1% Ag-ZnO-CSs and 1% Au-ZnO-CSs, two simultaneous reactions occur [79].The initial reaction involves oxidation due to photogenerated holes, while the subsequent reaction involves reduction stemming from photogenerated electrons.Initially, in the ground state, all electrons occupy the valence band (VB).Upon exposure to light of the appropriate wavelength, electrons are energised to the conduction band (CB), creating a positive hole (h + ) in the VB and a negative electron (e − ) in the CB [80].Therefore, the presence of carbon nanospheres (CSs) aids in trapping the photoinduced electrons, extending their lifespan and promoting the separation of charge carriers [81].Additionally, CSs exhibit significant absorption of organic species, contributing to the effective degradation of organic pollutants.Simultaneously, the incorporation of silver (Ag)/gold (Au) into the ZnO framework proves to be an effective strategy, primarily attributed to its surface Plasmon resonance (SPR) property [40,82].This property induces the oscillation of free electrons at the interface between Ag/Au and the ZnO host, leading to a shift in optical absorption towards longer wavelengths within the visible region [41,83].In the photocatalysis these charge carriers (h + and e − ) play a pivotal role in degrading methylene blue (MB) dye through their interaction with oxygen (e − ) and water (h + ), producing superoxide (O 2 2− ) and hydroxide (•OH) ions.These ions then react with the MB dye, facilitating its degradation into various intermediates (Figure S2) and eventually into H 2 O and CO 2 .

Effects of various conditions on photocatalytic activity of MB
The 20/80 ZnO−CSs nanocomposite was utilised to check the optimum photodegradation conditions that would be used for the study.Notably, ZnO−CSs demonstrated an enhanced surface area of 21.95 m 2 /g compared to the 11.07 m 2 /g surface area of greensynthesised ZnO-NPs detailed in our previous study [47].The superior photocatalytic properties of 20/80 ZnO−CSs prompted further investigation into optimisation experiments.In this section, optimisation of pH, dosage, and dye concentration was explored using the 20/80 ZnO−CSs.Various pH levels (3, 5, 7, and 10), dosage amounts (15, 30, 45, and 90 mg), and dye concentrations (5, 10, 15, and 20 mg/L) were examined, with the optimal conditions identified as pH 5, a dosage of 90 mg of photocatalyst, and a dye concentration of 5 mg/L.

pH Influence
The pH level plays an essential role in removal efficiency by influencing the adsorption chemistry between the adsorbent and adsorbate [9].Maximum degradation percentages observed at pH 3, 5, 7, and 10 are 13%, 42%, 40%, and 35%, respectively (refer to Figure 6a,b).Consequently, pH 5 was selected for further investigation.This pH-dependent removal mechanism can be attributed to variations in electrostatic attraction between the surface of ZnO−CSs and the dye MB.Optimal electrostatic attraction at pH 5 leads to enhanced pollutant degradation compared to pH 3, where the driving force is stronger [15].At pH 10, the surface charge of ZnO−CSs becomes positive [21], resulting in decreased degradation of anions on ZnO−CSs in an aqueous environment.Since methylene Scheme 2. Photodegradation mechanism of MB by 1% Ag-ZnO-CSs and 1% Au-ZnO-CSs.

Effects of various conditions on photocatalytic activity of MB
The 20/80 ZnO-CSs nanocomposite was utilised to check the optimum photodegradation conditions that would be used for the study.Notably, ZnO-CSs demonstrated an enhanced surface area of 21.95 m 2 /g compared to the 11.07 m 2 /g surface area of greensynthesised ZnO-NPs detailed in our previous study [47].The superior photocatalytic properties of 20/80 ZnO-CSs prompted further investigation into optimisation experiments.In this section, optimisation of pH, dosage, and dye concentration was explored using the 20/80 ZnO-CSs.Various pH levels (3, 5, 7, and 10), dosage amounts (15, 30, 45, and 90 mg), and dye concentrations (5, 10, 15, and 20 mg/L) were examined, with the optimal conditions identified as pH 5, a dosage of 90 mg of photocatalyst, and a dye concentration of 5 mg/L.

pH Influence
The pH level plays an essential role in removal efficiency by influencing the adsorption chemistry between the adsorbent and adsorbate [9].Maximum degradation percentages observed at pH 3, 5, 7, and 10 are 13%, 42%, 40%, and 35%, respectively (refer to Figure 6a,b).Consequently, pH 5 was selected for further investigation.This pH-dependent removal mechanism can be attributed variations in electrostatic attraction between the surface of ZnO-CSs and the dye MB.Optimal electrostatic attraction at pH 5 leads to enhanced pollutant degradation compared to pH 3, where the driving force is stronger [15].At pH 10, the surface charge of ZnO-CSs becomes positive [21], resulting in decreased degradation of anions on ZnO-CSs in an aqueous environment.Since methylene blue has a pKa of 3.8, cationic species dominate the solution for pH values above this threshold [22], leading to higher concentrations of the anionic form of MB at pH greater than pKa.The degradation of MB by ZnO-CSs was found to be higher at the natural pH of MB, which is pH 5 in this study.Additionally, the oxidation potential of hydroxyl radicals decreases with increasing pH, resulting in reduced dye degradation at pH values above 5 [24].Moreover, the elevated concentration of OH ions in the solution leads to competition between OH ions and the anionic form of MB, consequently decreasing MB degradation by ZnO-CSs nanocomposites [25].
Textiles 2024, 4, FOR PEER REVIEW 14 threshold [22], leading to higher concentrations of the anionic form of MB at pH greater than pKa.The degradation of MB by ZnO−CSs was found to be higher at the natural pH of MB, which is pH 5 in this study.Additionally, the oxidation potential of hydroxyl radicals decreases with increasing pH, resulting in reduced dye degradation at pH values above 5 [24].Moreover, the elevated concentration of OH ions in the solution leads to competition between OH ions and the anionic form of MB, consequently decreasing MB degradation by ZnO−CSs nanocomposites [25].

Influence of ZnO−CSs dose
To examine the impact of the dosage of the 20/80 ZnO−CSs photocatalyst on the degradation of MB, varying amounts of catalyst (15, 30, 45, and 90 mg) were introduced into the solution under consistent conditions, including a reaction time of 120 min, pH 5, and an initial MB concentration of 20 mg/L.The UV-Vis curves illustrating the outcomes of these analyses are presented in Figure 7a,b.The corresponding degradation percentages for 15, 30, 45, and 90 mg were 10%, 42%, 34%, and 64%, respectively.
Figure 7a,b indicates no degradation when 15 mg of the catalyst was employed.However, an increase in the catalyst amount to 30 mg resulted in a noticeable 42% degradation of MB.At a dosage of 45 mg, degradation was measured at 34%, while at 90 mg, the degradation efficiency reached 64% [9].This can be attributed to the heightened availability of surface-active sites with an increased catalyst amount, leading to an augmented production of hydroxyl radicals and, consequently, enhanced photocatalytic activity of ZnO−CSs.Excessive catalyst concentration, however, can impede UV light penetration into the catalyst surface, limiting the generation of hydroxyl radicals and reducing dye degradation efficiency [15,26].Consequently, a photocatalyst dosage of 90 mg was selected for further investigation.

Influence of ZnO-CSs dose
To examine the impact of the dosage of the 20/80 ZnO-CSs photocatalyst on the degradation of MB, varying amounts of catalyst (15, 30, 45, and 90 mg) were introduced into the solution under consistent conditions, including a reaction time of 120 min, pH 5, and an initial MB concentration of 20 mg/L.The UV-Vis curves illustrating the outcomes of these analyses are presented in Figure 7a,b.The corresponding degradation percentages for 15, 30, 45, and 90 mg were 10%, 42%, 34%, and 64%, respectively.
Figure 7a,b indicates no degradation when 15 mg of the catalyst was employed.However, an increase in the catalyst amount to 30 mg resulted in a noticeable 42% degradation of MB.At a dosage of 45 mg, degradation was measured at 34%, while at 90 mg, the degradation efficiency reached 64% [9].This can be attributed to the heightened availability of surface-active sites with an increased catalyst amount, leading to an augmented production of hydroxyl radicals and, consequently, enhanced photocatalytic activity of ZnO-CSs.Excessive catalyst concentration, however, can impede UV light penetration into the catalyst surface, limiting the generation of hydroxyl radicals and reducing dye degradation efficiency [15,26].Consequently, a photocatalyst dosage of 90 mg was selected for further investigation.

Influence of MB Concentration
The highest degradation percentages observed at concentrations of 5, 10, 15, and 20 mg/L were 75%, 63%, 43%, and 42%, respectively.The Figure 8a,b illustrates these findings.The results indicate that increasing the initial dye concentration resulted in reduced degradation.This phenomenon could be attributed to a decrease in the number of available surface-active sites, consequently leading to a reduction in hydroxyl radical production and subsequent photocatalytic activity.Furthermore, elevated dye concentrations shortened the path length of photons entering the dye solution.At higher dye concentrations, the dye molecules may absorb a significant portion of solar light instead of the catalyst, thereby diminishing catalytic efficiency [27,84].Therefore, in this investigation, it was essential to work with a higher concentration of MB solution (20 mg/L) to enhance the catalytic capabilities of the materials.Furthermore, the results from the UV-vis photodegradation curves (Figure 9a-d

Influence of MB Concentration
The highest degradation percentages observed at concentrations of 5, 10, 15, and 20 mg/L were 75%, 63%, 43%, and 42%, respectively.The Figure 8a,b illustrates these findings.The results indicate that increasing the initial dye concentration resulted in reduced degradation.This phenomenon could be attributed to a decrease in the number of available surface-active sites, consequently leading to a reduction in hydroxyl radical production and subsequent photocatalytic activity.Furthermore, elevated dye concentrations shortened the path length of photons entering the dye solution.At higher dye concentrations, the dye molecules may absorb a significant portion of solar light instead of the catalyst, thereby diminishing catalytic efficiency [27,84].Therefore, in this investigation, it was essential to work with a higher concentration of MB solution (20 mg/L) to enhance the catalytic capabilities of the materials.

Influence of MB Concentration
The highest degradation percentages observed at concentrations of 5, 10, 15, and 20 mg/L were 75%, 63%, 43%, and 42%, respectively.The Figure 8a,b illustrates these findings.The results indicate that increasing the initial dye concentration resulted in reduced degradation.This phenomenon could be attributed to a decrease in the number of available surface-active sites, consequently leading to a reduction in hydroxyl radical production and subsequent photocatalytic activity.Furthermore, elevated dye concentrations shortened the path length of photons entering the dye solution.At higher dye concentrations, the dye molecules may absorb a significant portion of solar light instead of the catalyst, thereby diminishing catalytic efficiency [27,84].Therefore, in this investigation, it was essential to work with a higher concentration of MB solution (20 mg/L) to enhance the catalytic capabilities of the materials.Furthermore, the results from the UV-vis photodegradation curves (Figure 9a-d  Furthermore, the results from the UV-vis photodegradation curves (Figure 9a-d  Research indicates that the addition of carbon spheres (CSs) enhances the photocatalytic activity of ZnO−CSs under sunlight and visible light irradiation.This improvement is attributed to the extended light absorption range of CSs and their ability to rapidly separate photogenerated charge carriers [85].Additionally, the presence of CSs facilitates the dispersion of ZnO-C in the methylene blue (MB) solution due to their lightweight nature.In the case of 1% Ag−ZnO−CSs, the silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) contribute to harvesting visible light energy for ZnO through their surface Plasmon resonance (SPR) effect.Moreover, they enhance the separation of photogenerated charge carriers by serving as an electron reservoir.As a result, 1% Ag−ZnO−CSs exhibit higher efficiency in degrading under sunlight and visible light compared to ZnO alone.The combined effects of CSs and Ag NPs lead to increased light absorption intensity and enhanced efficiency in separating photogenerated charge carriers for 1% Ag−ZnO−CSs.One possible explanation for these higher degradation rates is that the noble metal-doped ZnO-NPs enhance the photocatalytic efficiency in the UV region of the light spectrum, since all the materials exhibited a maximum absorbance band in the UV spectrum.The maximum absorbance band of ZnO−CSs was found to be 300.7 nm with a shoulder around 287.5 nm, while the maximum The highest degradation rates (Figure 9c,d) of 75%, 92%, and 98% for the 20/80 ZnO-CSs, 1% Ag-ZnO-CSs, and 1% Au-ZnO-CSs, respectively, were found.The synthesised 20/80 ZnO-CSs, 1% Ag-ZnO-CSs, and 1% Au-ZnO-CSs nanocomposite did not achieve the first order of kinetics because the R 2 was not closer to 1.The reaction rates of 20/80 ZnO-CSs, 1% Ag-ZnO-CSs, and 1% Au-ZnO-CSs were 0.00368, 0.01017, and 0.00196, respectively.
Research indicates that the addition of carbon spheres (CSs) enhances the photocatalytic activity of ZnO-CSs under sunlight and visible light irradiation.This improvement is attributed to the extended light absorption range of CSs and their ability to rapidly separate photogenerated charge carriers [85].Additionally, the presence of CSs facilitates the dispersion of ZnO-C in the methylene blue (MB) solution due to their lightweight nature.In the case of 1% Ag-ZnO-CSs, the silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) contribute to harvesting visible light energy for ZnO through their surface Plasmon resonance (SPR) effect.Moreover, they enhance the separation of photogenerated charge carriers by serving as an electron reservoir.As a result, 1% Ag-ZnO-CSs exhibit higher efficiency in degrading under sunlight and visible light compared to ZnO alone.The combined effects of CSs and Ag NPs lead to increased light absorption intensity and enhanced efficiency in separating photogenerated charge carriers for 1% Ag-ZnO-CSs.One possible explanation for these higher degradation rates is that the noble metal-doped ZnO-NPs enhance the photocatalytic efficiency in the UV region of the light spectrum, since all the materials exhibited a maximum absorbance band in the UV spectrum.The maximum absorbance band of ZnO-CSs was found to be 300.7 nm with a shoulder around 287.5 nm, while the maximum absorbance band of 1% Ag-ZnO-CSs was 298 nm with a shoulder band at 286 nm and the 1% Au-ZnO-CSs had a maximum absorbance band around 290 nm, though it is expected that the absorbance should be moving towards the visible region instead of Textiles 2024, 4 119 moving backwards to the UV region.The findings of this are almost comparable to those of other studies published in the literature where UV, visible, and sunlight light sources were used to degrade organic materials using similar nanocomposites (see Table 2).Furthermore, research indicates that the addition of carbon spheres (CSs) enhances the photocatalytic activity of ZnO-CSs under sunlight and visible light irradiation.This improvement is attributed to the extended light absorption range of CSs and their ability to rapidly separate photogenerated charge carriers [85].Additionally, the presence of CSs facilitates the dispersion of ZnO-C in the methylene blue (MB) solution due to their lightweight nature.In the case of 1% Ag-ZnO-CSs, the silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) contribute to harvesting visible light energy for ZnO through their surface Plasmon resonance (SPR) effect.Moreover, they enhance the separation of photogenerated charge carriers by serving as an electron reservoir [86].As a result, 1% Ag-ZnO-CSs exhibit higher efficiency in degrading under sunlight and visible light compared to ZnO alone.The combined effects of CSs and Ag NPs lead to increased light absorption intensity and enhanced efficiency in separating photogenerated charge carriers for 1% Ag-ZnO-CSs.In these studies, it can be noted that the presence of carbon and AgO synergistically work together for trapping and increasing the surface area to benefit more active sites on the material, thus optimisation in our study might be of importance.It is important to note that the light source used plays a major role.Though the degradation rates were very high as compared to the previously reported studies, the primary purpose of this work was to enhance the properties of these materials, such that they would be active in the visible light region, and they were still active in the UV region.
The 1% Au-ZnO-CSs were found to be the best nanocomposites amongst the three materials; hence, it has been used further for reusability studies, trapping studies as well as the degradation of pharmaceuticals.It is worth noting that the higher degradation was also reported for the pharmaceuticals, and it is important to understand whether the material is stable, as stability and efficiency are both characteristics that make it the best material for photocatalytic applications.

Reusability Studies
The reusability studies for four cycles using the 1% Au-ZnO-CSs are shown in Figure 10ac, with a 2 h UV light exposure duration, for each cycle.The catalyst was not stable as the degradation was reduced from the 1st cycle by more than 50%.After the 4th cycle, a complete collapse in the degradation took place.To test the efficiency of the 1% Au-ZnO/C against other pollutants, this material was tested against various pharmaceutical pollutants.a complete collapse in the degradation took place.To test efficiency of the 1% Au-ZnO/C against other pollutants, this material was tested against various pharmaceutical pollutants.

MB Trapping Studies
To understand the photodegradation mechanism of MB utilising the 1% Au−ZnO−CSs nanocomposite, a series of experiments were conducted employing iso-propyl alcohol (IPA, 5 mmol L −1 ), EDTA (5 mmol L −1 ), AgNO3 (5 mmol L −1 ), and p-benzoquinone (BQ, 5 mmol L −1 ) as scavengers for hole (h + ), hydroxyl radical (OH•), electron (e − ), and superoxide (•O2 2− ), respectively.As depicted in Figure 11, all scavengers employed in these investigations influenced the degradation rate of MB.Notably, the inclusion of AgNO3 significantly decreased the degradation rate, followed by IPA addition.On the other hand, the introduction of EDTA and BQ slightly decreased the MB degradation rate.These findings highlight the extensive involvement of both OH• radicals and the e − in the MB photodegradation, thereby confirming that the existence of Au and CSs plays a crucial role in trapping photoinduced electrons and induces free electron oscillation in the photodegradation process [80,82].

MB Trapping Studies
To understand the photodegradation mechanism of MB utilising the 1% Au-ZnO-CSs nanocomposite, a series of experiments were conducted employing iso-propyl alcohol (IPA, 5 mmol L −1 ), EDTA (5 mmol L −1 ), AgNO 3 (5 mmol L −1 ), and p-benzoquinone (BQ, 5 mmol L −1 ) as scavengers for hole (h + ), hydroxyl radical (OH•), electron (e − ), and superoxide (•O 2 2− ), respectively.As depicted in Figure 11, all scavengers employed in these investigations influenced the degradation rate of MB.Notably, the inclusion of AgNO 3 significantly decreased the degradation rate, followed by IPA addition.On the other hand, the introduction of EDTA and BQ slightly decreased the MB degradation rate.These findings highlight the extensive involvement of both OH• radicals and the e − in the MB photodegradation, thereby confirming that the existence of Au and CSs plays a crucial role in trapping photoinduced electrons and induces free electron oscillation in the photodegradation process [80,82].
Textiles 2024, 4, FOR PEER REVIEW 18 a complete collapse in the degradation took place.To test the efficiency of the 1% Au-ZnO/C against other pollutants, this material was tested against various pharmaceutical pollutants.

MB Trapping Studies
To understand the photodegradation mechanism of MB utilising the 1% Au−ZnO−CSs nanocomposite, a series of experiments were conducted employing iso-propyl alcohol (IPA, 5 mmol L −1 ), EDTA (5 mmol L −1 ), AgNO3 (5 mmol L −1 ), and p-benzoquinone (BQ, 5 mmol L −1 ) as scavengers for hole (h + ), hydroxyl radical (OH•), electron (e − ), and superoxide (•O2 2− ), respectively.As depicted in Figure 11, all scavengers employed in these investigations influenced the degradation rate of MB.Notably, the inclusion of AgNO3 significantly decreased the degradation rate, followed by IPA addition.On the other hand, the introduction of EDTA and BQ slightly decreased the MB degradation rate.These findings highlight the extensive involvement of both OH• radicals and the e − in the MB photodegradation, thereby confirming that the existence of Au and CSs plays a crucial role in trapping photoinduced electrons and induces free electron oscillation in the photodegradation process [80,82].

Photodegradation of Various Pharmaceuticals
The degradation of pharmaceuticals (CBZ, CIP, SMX, and SSX), were conducted by using 100 mg photocatalyst and 10 mg/L concentration of contaminant (Figure 12).Similar conditions as with MB were followed for the 1% Ag-ZnO-CSs photocatalyst, which
shows the TEM micrographs of the obtained 20/80 ZnO−CSs, 1% Ag−ZnO−CSs, and 1% Au−ZnO−CSs nanomaterials.The prepared 1% Ag−ZnO−CSs had spherically shaped particles with length distributions ranging from 20 to 100 nm, with the most dominant particles ranging from 40 to 80 nm.While the prepared 1% Au−ZnO−CSs had spherically shaped particles with length distributions ranging from 50 to 400 nm, with the most dominant particles ranging from 50 to 250 nm.The particle sizes of the noble metal-doped nanocomposites were smaller 20/80 ZnO−CSs with particle size distributions between 50 and 250 nm.The 1%

Figure 4 .
Figure 4. (a) Low-and (b) high-resolution TEM images of 20/80-ZnO−CSs and (c) the corresponding particle size distribution curve, (d) low-and (e) high-resolution TEM images of 1% Ag−ZnO−CSs and (f) the corresponding particle size distribution curve, (g) low-and (h) high-resolution TEM images of 1% Au−ZnO−CSs and (i) the corresponding particle size distribution curve.

Figure 4 .
Figure 4. (a) Low-and (b) high-resolution TEM images of 20/80-ZnO-CSs and (c) the corresponding particle size distribution curve, (d) low-and (e) high-resolution TEM images of 1% Ag-ZnO-CSs and (f) the corresponding particle size distribution curve, (g) low-and (h) high-resolution TEM images of 1% Au-ZnO-CSs and (i) the corresponding particle size distribution curve.

Figure 9 .
Figure 9. UV-Vis diagrams representing degradation of MB by (a) 20/80 ZnO−CSs, (b) 1% Ag−ZnO−CSs, (c) 1% Au−ZnO−CSs, and the (d) degradation efficiencies, (e) At/Ao plots, and (f) kinetics of 20/80 ZnO−CSs, 1%Ag−ZnO−CSs, and 1% Au−ZnO−CSs.The highest degradation rates (Figure 9c,d) of 75%, 92%, and 98% for the 20/80 ZnO−CSs, 1% Ag−ZnO−CSs, and 1% Au−ZnO−CSs, respectively, were found.The synthesised 20/80 ZnO−CSs, 1% Ag−ZnO−CSs, and 1% Au−ZnO−CSs nanocomposite did not achieve the first order of kinetics because the R 2 was not closer to 1.The reaction rates of 20/80 ZnO−CSs, 1% Ag−ZnO−CSs, and 1% Au−ZnO−CSs were 0.00368, 0.01017, and 0.00196, respectively.Research indicates that the addition of carbon spheres (CSs) enhances the photocatalytic activity of ZnO−CSs under sunlight and visible light irradiation.This improvement is attributed to the extended light absorption range of CSs and their ability to rapidly separate photogenerated charge carriers[85].Additionally, the presence of CSs facilitates the dispersion of ZnO-C in the methylene blue (MB) solution due to their lightweight nature.In the case of 1% Ag−ZnO−CSs, the silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) contribute to harvesting visible light energy for ZnO through their surface Plasmon resonance (SPR) effect.Moreover, they enhance the separation of photogenerated charge carriers by serving as an electron reservoir.As a result, 1% Ag−ZnO−CSs exhibit higher efficiency in degrading under sunlight and visible light compared to ZnO alone.The combined effects of CSs and Ag NPs lead to increased light absorption intensity and enhanced efficiency in separating photogenerated charge carriers for 1% Ag−ZnO−CSs.One possible explanation for these higher degradation rates is that the noble metal-doped ZnO-NPs enhance the photocatalytic efficiency in the UV region of the light spectrum, since all the materials exhibited a maximum absorbance band in the UV spectrum.The maximum absorbance band of ZnO−CSs was found to be 300.7 nm with a shoulder around 287.5 nm, while the maximum

Figure 11 .
Figure 11.Effect of scavengers on the photocatalytic degradation of MB by 1% Au−ZnO−CSs.

Figure 11 .
Figure 11.Effect of scavengers on the photocatalytic degradation of MB by 1% Au−ZnO−CSs.Figure 11.Effect of scavengers on the photocatalytic degradation of MB by 1% Au-ZnO-CSs.

Figure 11 .
Figure 11.Effect of scavengers on the photocatalytic degradation of MB by 1% Au−ZnO−CSs.Figure 11.Effect of scavengers on the photocatalytic degradation of MB by 1% Au-ZnO-CSs.

Table 1
presents a summary of the LC-MS data regarding some of the potential compounds identified in C. benghalensis plant extracts.The LC-MS analysis revealed the presence of compounds such as alkaloids, esters, phenols, carboxylic acids, etc.The mass-tocharge ratio (m/z) derived from the coupled LC-MS data were utilised to generate the potential organic structures detailed in the Table1.The data highlight the elevated presence

Table 2 .
Various studies of the degradation of dyes metal-doped ZnO-CSs nanocomposites.