Cellulose acetate-zirconium (IV) phosphate nano-composite with enhanced photo-catalytic activity

► Cellulose acetate Zr (IV) phosphate nanocomposite was synthesized. ► The ion exchange capacity of CA/ZPNC was explored. ► CA/ZPNC was highly selective for lead ions. ► CA/ZPNC proved to be an efficient photocatalyst for dye degradation.