Study of Gamma Irradiation on FTIR and XRD of MWCNTs-Clay-TiO2 Nanocomposite

Abstract

Structural and chemical analysis of gamma-irradiated green-synthesized TiO₂–MWCNTs–Bentonite nanocomposite obtained by Melia azedarach leaf extract have been studied. Dose dependent changes in bonding configuration, crystallinity and functional groups were studied along with the impact of doses by gamma (25, 50, 75 and 100 kGy) in FTIR and XRD analyses. XRD data results showed that moderate irradiation doses (25–50 kGy) enhanced the formation of the TiO₂ phase and interfacial adhesion among TiO₂, MWCNTs, and clay matrices. These modifications produced an increase in lattice perfection and surface hydroxylation, which were essential for photocatalysis and adsorption. Higher doses (75–100 kGy), on the contrary, resulted in an incomplete amorphization and defect formation, with a significant bond scission comprising of both bond breaking and oxidation. The dual role of gamma irradiation, in increasing structure at mild doses and decreasing at higher levels indicates its application as a tunable tool for nanocomposite design. Technically, the tunable surface chemistry and crystallinity of irradiation as applied could serve as a promising way to adjust photocatalytic activity of the hybrid nanomaterials for environmental purification and photochemistry-responsive practices.