In this work, a novel FeNi2S4/TiO2–x
nanocomposite was prepared by facile
hydrothermal
synthesis, then comprehensively characterized by a multitechnique
approach, and subsequently employed for round-the-clock (light and
dark) removal of rhodamine B. Superior improvement of the morphological
and thermal properties of the FeNi2S4/TiO2–x
nanocomposite due to the use of
sodium dodecyl sulfate was investigated. An l-ascorbic acid-assisted
photo-Fenton catalyst can be employed effectively for complete rhodamine
B removal at 30 min using a 10 W white-light-emitting diode (LED)
source under a wide range of operating conditions compared to other
reported photo-Fenton catalysts. The obtained results show a significant
synergism between the nanocomposite components, which makes the total
RhB removal much better than when each was used alone. This study
presents a facile approach to designing a sustainable multifunctional
catalyst with reusability, high catalytic activity, and environmental
friendliness. Due to the photocatalytic and photo-Fenton synergism
in the presence of hydrogen peroxide and ascorbic acid under visible
light, there is high potential to generate more electron/hole carriers
and hydroxyl radicals (•OH).