This study highlights a simple, eco-friendly approach to synthesizing composite hydrogels using crosslinked carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and alginate (SA) copolymers, encapsulating g-C3N4 nanoparticles. Various analytical techniques confirmed the structural, textural, optical, and mechanical enhancements achieved through this encapsulation. The resulting composite hydrogels display a coherent structure, improved porosity, strong photostability, and good adhesion properties.
The effectiveness of these hydrogels in removing a variety of dyes, both cationic (Methylene Blue) and anionic (Orange G, Remazol Brilliant Blue R), was tested across single- and binary-dye systems. The interactions between g-C3N4 and the negatively charged CMC/SA copolymer significantly boosted both adsorption capacity and photocatalytic degradation efficiency. Additional studies confirmed the stability, reusability, and sustained performance of the g-C3N4/CMC/SA beads.
With high photocatalytic activity, recyclability, and elimination of the need for expensive catalyst separation, these composite hydrogels present a cost-effective, environmentally friendly solution for combating pollution. Their potential to address environmental issues efficiently makes them a promising material for water treatment applications.