Microwave radiation assisted synthesis of NiFe₂O₄-CoFe₂O₄ nanocomposites for photocatalytic and photoelectrochemical water splitting applications

Microwave radiation assisted method is emerged as a promising method due to its environmental friendliness, less time and no need toxic or harsh reagents. Herein, we report the synthesis of a NiFe₂O₄-CoFe₂O₄ nanocomposites by microwave radiation assisted method and its characterisation using various methods. X-ray Diffractogram (XRD) studied revealed the spinel cubic structure of the NiFe₂O₄-CoFe₂O₄ nanocomposites having an average crystallite size of 34 nm. Tetrahedral (594 cm⁻¹) and octahedral (397 cm⁻¹) sites of NiFe₂O₄-CoFe₂O₄ are identified by Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy as it is having the typical vibrational frequencies. UV–Visible diffuse reflectance (UV–Vis DRS) spectrum indicated that optical bandgap is less for nanocomposites compared to individual components. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images show the spherical nature of the nanocomposites. The photocatalytic degradation study of microwave-assisted NiFe₂O₄-CoFe₂O₄ nanocomposites is investigated under visible light irradiation against the Rose Bengal and Methylene blue dyes. The developed nanocomposites exhibited enhanced photoelectrochemical hydrogen due to higher charge separation and faster charge transfer at the interface.