Cu3P/Zn0.8Cd0.2S/g-C3N4 ternary nanocomposite for efficient visible-light-driven degradation of methylene blue through a dual Z-scheme photocatalytic configuration
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
This research intends to improve the photocatalytic efficiency of graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) for visible-light–driven pollutant degradation by constructing a novel Cu3P/Zn0.8Cd0.2S/g-C3N4 ternary nanocomposite. The synthesis of Cu3P/Zn0.8Cd0.2S/g-C3N4 is conducted by a facile hydrothermal procedure. The structural characteristics, morphology, and photocatalytic properties of the composite were evaluated using XRD, FTIR, XPS, BET, FE-SEM, EDS, TEM, UV–Vis DRS, PL, EIS, photocurrent response, Mott-Schottky, and UV–Vis spectroscopy. The photocatalytic degradation of the aqueous solution of methylene blue was performed for 3 h under the irradiation of an LED lamp (100 W, 400–700 nm). The 5%-Cu3P/Zn0.8Cd0.2S/g-C3N4 composite exhibited the highest photocatalytic efficiency, achieving a 95.64% degradation of MB within 180 min, and 72.09% in 30 min, with an apparent rate constant of 0.0131 min−1, substantially outperforming the individual components (58.55% for g-C3N4, 58.63% for Zn0.8Cd0.2S, and 70.15% for Cu3P within 180 min). The improved photocatalytic capability of Cu3P/Zn0.8Cd0.2S/g-C3N4 is mainly attributed to the construction of a dual Z-scheme heterojunction between g-C3N4, Zn0.8Cd0.2S, and Cu3P, promoting both the separation and movement of photoexcited charge transporters. This study demonstrates the potential of developing Cu3P/Zn0.8Cd0.2S/g-C3N4 heterojunction as a noble-metal-free and cost-effective photocatalyst for wastewater treatment, suggesting its applicability for other purposes such as water splitting, CO2 reduction, and antibacterial activity.
期刊介绍:
Ionics is publishing original results in the fields of science and technology of ionic motion. This includes theoretical, experimental and practical work on electrolytes, electrode, ionic/electronic interfaces, ionic transport aspects of corrosion, galvanic cells, e.g. for thermodynamic and kinetic studies, batteries, fuel cells, sensors and electrochromics. Fast solid ionic conductors are presently providing new opportunities in view of several advantages, in addition to conventional liquid electrolytes.