A facile, novel and low-temperature synthesis of MgO nanorods via thermal decomposition using new starting reagent and its photocatalytic activity evaluation

• MgO nanorods were synthesized by a novel solvent-less thermal decomposition route.
• Mg–MOF nanoflowers were prepared via a simple microwave approach as new Mg precursor.
• Pure cubic phase of MgO were synthesized after calcination at 200 °C for 6 h.
• In the presence of MgO nanorods, more than 90% of MB was decolorized after 180 min.

Herein, the MgO nanorods were successfully synthesized via a facile, novel and solvent-free thermal decomposition route at low temperature using Mg–MOF as a new starting reagent for the first time. The Mg–MOF was prepared via fast microwave-based method using 2,6-pyridinedicarboxylic acid ammonium and Mg(NO3)2·2H2O. Furthermore, the efficiency of MgO nanostructures as a photocatalyst for decolorization of methylene blue (MB) under visible light irradiation has been evaluated. The synthesized MgO nanostructures exhibited appreciable photocatalytic activity and in presence of MgO, 90% degradation of MB was obtained after 180 min.