Effective photocatalytic decolorization of methyl orange utilizing TiO2/ZnO/chitosan nanocomposite films under simulated solar irradiation

► TiO2/ZnO/chitosan nanocomposite thin films were prepared by entrapping Zn2 + ions. ► Well-dispersed TiO2/ZnO crystal (5-15 nm) were embedded in crosslinked chitosan films. ► TiO2/ZnO/chitosan NTFs exhibited high photocatalytic activity. ► TiO2/ZnO/chitosan NTFs might be recycled and reused.