Novel synthesis of hybrid 0D/2D heterojunctions of synthesis hybrid Ti3C2 MXene/Carbon dots (CDs)/ZnO for enhanced activity of removal of pharmaceutical pollutants under visible-light

This study investigates the production and photocatalytic efficacy of a Ti₃C₂ MXene/CDs/ZnO composite for the degradation of pharmaceutical contaminants, namely metronidazole and paracetamol, under visible light and sunlight. The catalyst was produced via a hydrothermal process and studied using XRD, SEM, TEM, FTIR, UV–Vis DRS, and EIS techniques. The findings demonstrate substantial photocatalytic efficacy, attaining 99 % degradation of metronidazole and paracetamol in 100 and 180 min, respectively, under visible light. Optimal photocatalytic conditions were determined, encompassing pollutant concentration, catalyst dosage, and pH. Mechanistic investigations reveal hydroxyl radicals as the principal active species, augmented by superoxide anions and holes. The catalyst exhibited strong reusability across five cycles with negligible efficiency decline. The application in actual water source demonstrated significant degradation efficiencies, highlighting its potential for environmental restoration.