Response surface methodology: a powerful tool for optimizing the synthesis of metal sulfide nanoparticles for dye degradation

Abstract

Metal sulfide nanoparticles (MSNs) have attracted significant attention due to their unique optical, electronic, and catalytic properties. These nanomaterials have great potential for many applications, such as solar cells, sensors, and environmental remediation. In particular, MSNs have demonstrated promising results in the degradation of dyes, which are hazardous pollutants commonly released by industries (textiles, leather, paper, and plastics). This review article provides a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in the synthesis of MSNs and their application in dye degradation. Two optimization approaches, namely, conventional and response surface methodology (RSM), are discussed in detail, highlighting their advantages and limitations. The conventional approach involves varying one parameter at a time, while the RSM approach uses statistical and mathematical tools to model and analyze the relationship between multiple variables and their effects on the desired response. This article also highlights recent research on optimizing the synthesis conditions for various MSNs, such as zinc sulfide (ZnS), copper sulfide, and cadmium sulfide (CdS) using both conventional and RSM approaches. Additionally, this article presents a discussion on the photocatalytic performance of MSNs in the degradation of various organic dyes, including azo, triphenylmethane, and anthraquinone dyes. Overall, this review serves as a valuable resource for researchers working in the field of nanotechnology and environmental remediation.