Dual-function silver nanoparticles catalyst supported on ZnO nanoparticles from plant extract: high-TOF hydrogen generation and fast photocatalytic tetracycline removal

Key Points

• This research aims to develop a dual-function catalyst using silver nanoparticles supported on zinc oxide for hydrogen generation and tetracycline degradation.
• Synthesized silver nanoparticles using Cyperus scariosus extract.
• Combined silver nanoparticles with zinc oxide to form a composite catalyst.
• Evaluated hydrogen generation from formic acid under solar light.
• Assessed photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline under solar exposure.
• Achieved a turnover frequency (TOF) of 3935 h−1 for hydrogen generation.
• Demonstrated approximately 99% degradation of tetracycline under solar light.
• Highlighted strong synergistic effects between silver and zinc oxide.