Abstract

Innovative composites based on an amorphous-carbon matrix containing a second phase ZnOoxideand/orhighlydispersedZnmetallicweresynthesizedviaamodifiedPechiniroute,inwhich a partial pyrolysis method was reached. Studies of adsorption in the dark and the photocatalytic activity for the cationic azo-dye, basic blue 41, and degradation were carried out. X-ray diffraction patterns for the carbon matrix and its composite with Zn show characteristics of the amorphous carbon. TheinfraredinthemidregionofthecompositepreparedwithZnOandZnexhibitvibrational bands related to bonds zinc oxide. The surface pH of the material is the main factor responsible for the adsorption of the azo-dye, but the contribution of mesopores favored the diffusion of molecules from the bulk of solution to the pore framework. Esters-like functional groups on the surface of carbons hinder the adsorption of the azo-dye. When Zn is embedded within amorphous carbon the photocatalyticactivityofthecompositesshowedupto2.4higherthanneatZnO.Theenhancementin the photocatalytic activity and stability of C/ZnO/Zn and C/Zn composites is discussed in terms of a protector effect by the carbon layers inserted in composites. Carbon layers are responsible to inhibit the lixiviation of ZnO particles along irradiation