Phytosynthesis of CeO2-ZnO Nanocomposites Mediated by Parkia Speciosa Hassk Bark Aqueous Extract As Superior Photocatalyst in Reduction of Nitroaromatic Compound

CeO2-ZnO nanocomposites were successfully synthesized using Parkia speciosa Hassk bark aqueous extract by one pot phytosynthesis method. Parkia speciosa Hassk bark extract was used for the first time, in a novel approach, for phytosynthesis of CeO2-ZnO nanocomposites through this work. The properties of nanocomposites were characterized by Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy—Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM–EDX), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Raman, and UV–Vis Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy (UV–Vis DRS). The CeO2-ZnO nanocomposites were successfully formed with well-dispersed and small particle size (22.2 nm). The nanocomposites exhibit superior photocatalytic activity under sodium light irradiation toward reduction of nitroaromatic compound within 4 min reaction time. This result demonstrated promising green CeO2-ZnO nanocomposites for sustainable wastewater treatment.