Sign in to use this feature.

Years

Between: -

Subjects

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Journals

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Article Types

Countries / Regions

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Search Results (2,309)

Search Parameters:
Keywords = charge separations

Order results
Result details
Results per page
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
14 pages, 4979 KiB  
Article
Oxygen Vacancy-Engineered Ni:Co3O4/Attapulgite Photothermal Catalyst from Recycled Spent Lithium-Ion Batteries for Efficient CO2 Reduction
by Jian Shi, Yao Xiao, Menghan Yu and Xiazhang Li
Catalysts 2025, 15(8), 732; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal15080732 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Abstract
Accelerated industrialization and surging energy demands have led to continuously rising atmospheric CO2 concentrations. Developing sustainable methods to reduce atmospheric CO2 levels is crucial for achieving carbon neutrality. Concurrently, the rapid development of new energy vehicles has driven a significant increase [...] Read more.
Accelerated industrialization and surging energy demands have led to continuously rising atmospheric CO2 concentrations. Developing sustainable methods to reduce atmospheric CO2 levels is crucial for achieving carbon neutrality. Concurrently, the rapid development of new energy vehicles has driven a significant increase in demand for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), which are now approaching an end-of-life peak. Efficient recycling of valuable metals from spent LIBs represents a critical challenge. This study employs conventional hydrometallurgical processing to recover valuable metals from spent LIBs. Subsequently, Ni-doped Co3O4 (Ni:Co3O4) supported on the natural mineral attapulgite (ATP) was synthesized via a sol–gel method. The incorporation of a small amount of Ni into the Co3O4 lattice generates oxygen vacancies, inducing a localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) effect, which significantly enhances charge carrier transport and separation efficiency. During the photocatalytic reduction of CO2, the primary product CO generated by the Ni:Co3O4/ATP composite achieved a high production rate of 30.1 μmol·g−1·h−1. Furthermore, the composite maintains robust catalytic activity even after five consecutive reaction cycles. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heterogeneous Catalysis in Air Pollution Control)
Show Figures

Figure 1

7 pages, 784 KiB  
Communication
Mechanoluminescent-Boosted NiS@g-C3N4/Sr2MgSi2O7:Eu,Dy Heterostructure: An All-Weather Photocatalyst for Water Purification
by Yuchen Huang, Jiamin Wu, Honglei Li, Dehao Liu, Qingzhe Zhang and Kai Li
Processes 2025, 13(8), 2416; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13082416 - 30 Jul 2025
Viewed by 53
Abstract
The vast majority of photocatalysts find it difficult to consistently and stably exhibit high performance due to the variability of sunlight intensity within a day, as well as the high energy consumption of artificial light sources. In this study, mechanoluminescent Sr2MgSi [...] Read more.
The vast majority of photocatalysts find it difficult to consistently and stably exhibit high performance due to the variability of sunlight intensity within a day, as well as the high energy consumption of artificial light sources. In this study, mechanoluminescent Sr2MgSi2O7:Eu,Dy phosphors is combined with NiS@g-C3N4 composite to construct a ternary heterogeneous photocatalytic system, denoted as NCS. In addition to the enhanced separation efficiency of photogenerated charge carriers by the formation of a heterojunction, the introduction of Sr2MgSi2O7:Eu,Dy provides an ultra-driving force for the photocatalytic reactions owing to its mechanoluminescence-induced excitation. Results show that the degradation rate of RhB increased significantly in comparison with pristine g-C3N4 and NiS@g-C3N4, indicating the obvious advantages of the ternary system for charge separation and migration. Moreover, the additional photocatalytic activity of NCS under ultrasound stimulation makes it a promising all-weather photocatalyst even in dark environments. This novel strategy opens up new horizons for the synergistic combination of light-driven and ultrasound-driven heterogeneous photocatalytic systems, and it also has important reference significance for the design and application of high-performance photocatalysts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Photocatalysis for a Sustainable Future)
Show Figures

Figure 1

8 pages, 2473 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Development of Photocatalytic Reduction Method of Cr(VI) with Modified g-C3N4 
by Miyu Sato, Mai Furukawa, Ikki Tateishi, Hideyuki Katsumata and Satoshi Kaneco
Chem. Proc. 2025, 17(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemproc2025017003 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 30
Abstract
Hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)), a common contaminant in industrial wastewater, poses severe health risks due to its carcinogenic and mutagenic properties. Consequently, the development of efficient and environmentally friendly methods to reduce Cr(VI) to the less toxic trivalent chromium (Cr(III)) is of great importance. [...] Read more.
Hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)), a common contaminant in industrial wastewater, poses severe health risks due to its carcinogenic and mutagenic properties. Consequently, the development of efficient and environmentally friendly methods to reduce Cr(VI) to the less toxic trivalent chromium (Cr(III)) is of great importance. In this study, we present a cost-effective photocatalytic approach using graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) modified with 1,3,5-trihydroxybenzene via one-step thermal condensation. The modified photo-catalyst exhibited improved surface area, porosity, visible-light absorption, and a narrowed band gap, all of which contributed to enhanced charge separation. As a result, nearly complete reduction in Cr(VI) was achieved within 90 min under visible-light irradiation. Further optimization of catalyst dosage and EDTA concentration gave even higher reduction efficiency. This work offers a promising strategy for the design of high-performance photocatalysts for environmental remediation. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 2707 KiB  
Article
Ultrasound-Activated BiOI/Ti3C2 Heterojunctions in 3D-Printed Piezocatalytic Antibacterial Scaffolds for Infected Bone Defects
by Juntao Xie, Zihao Zhang, Zhiheng Yu, Bingxin Sun, Yingxin Yang, Guoyong Wang and Cijun Shuai
Materials 2025, 18(15), 3533; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18153533 - 28 Jul 2025
Viewed by 206
Abstract
Piezocatalytic therapy (PCT) is a promising strategy for combating implant-associated infections due to its high tissue penetration depth and non-invasive nature. However, its catalytic efficiency remains limited by inefficient electron–hole separation. In this work, an ultrasound-responsive heterojunction (BiOI/Ti3C2) was [...] Read more.
Piezocatalytic therapy (PCT) is a promising strategy for combating implant-associated infections due to its high tissue penetration depth and non-invasive nature. However, its catalytic efficiency remains limited by inefficient electron–hole separation. In this work, an ultrasound-responsive heterojunction (BiOI/Ti3C2) was fabricated through in situ growth of bismuth iodide oxide on titanium carbide nanosheets. Subsequently, we integrated BiOI/Ti3C2 into poly(e-caprolactone) (PCL) scaffolds using selective laser sintering. The synergistic effect between BiOI and Ti3C2 significantly facilitated the redistribution of piezo-induced charges under ultrasound irradiation, effectively suppressing electron–hole recombination. Furthermore, abundant oxygen vacancies in BiOI/Ti3C2 provide more active sites for piezocatalytic reactions. Therefore, it enables ultrahigh reactive oxygen species (ROS) yields under ultrasound irradiation, achieving eradication rates of 98.87% for Escherichia coli (E. coli) and 98.51% for Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) within 10 minutes while maintaining cytocompatibility for potential tissue integration. This study provides a novel strategy for the utilization of ultrasound-responsive heterojunctions in efficient PCT therapy and bone regeneration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biomaterials)
Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 16222 KiB  
Article
Enhanced Photoelectrochemical Performance of 2D Bi2O3/TiO2 Heterostructure Film by Bi2S3 Surface Modification and Broadband Photodetector Application
by Lai Liu and Huizhen Yao
Materials 2025, 18(15), 3528; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18153528 - 28 Jul 2025
Viewed by 234
Abstract
Photoelectrochemical devices have garnered extensive research attention in the field of smart and multifunctional photoelectronics, owing to their lightweight nature, eco-friendliness, and cost-effective manufacturing processes. In this work, Bi2S3/Bi2O3/TiO2 heterojunction film was successfully fabricated [...] Read more.
Photoelectrochemical devices have garnered extensive research attention in the field of smart and multifunctional photoelectronics, owing to their lightweight nature, eco-friendliness, and cost-effective manufacturing processes. In this work, Bi2S3/Bi2O3/TiO2 heterojunction film was successfully fabricated and functioned as the photoelectrode of photoelectrochemical devices. The designed Bi2S3/Bi2O3/TiO2 photoelectrochemical photodetector possesses a broad light detection spectrum ranging from 400 to 900 nm and impressive self-powered characteristics. At 0 V bias, the device exhibits an on/off current ratio of approximately 1.3 × 106. It achieves a commendable detectivity of 5.7 × 1013 Jones as subjected to a 0.8 V bias potential, outperforming both bare TiO2 and Bi2O3/TiO2 photoelectrochemical devices. Moreover, the Bi2S3/Bi2O3/TiO2 photoelectrode film shows great promise in pollutant decomposition, achieving nearly 97.7% degradation efficiency within 60 min. The appropriate band energy alignment and the presence of an internal electric field at the interface of the Bi2S3/Bi2O3/TiO2 film serve as a potent driving force for the separation and transport of photogenerated carriers. These findings suggest that the Bi2S3/Bi2O3/TiO2 heterojunction film could be a viable candidate as a photoelectrode material for the development of high-performance photoelectrochemical optoelectronic devices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Thin Films and Interfaces)
Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 4256 KiB  
Review
Recent Progress and Future Perspectives of MNb2O6 Nanomaterials for Photocatalytic Water Splitting
by Parnapalle Ravi and Jin-Seo Noh
Materials 2025, 18(15), 3516; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18153516 - 27 Jul 2025
Viewed by 178
Abstract
The transition to clean and renewable energy sources is critically dependent on efficient hydrogen production technologies. This review surveys recent advances in photocatalytic water splitting, focusing on MNb2O6 nanomaterials, which have emerged as promising photocatalysts due to their tunable band [...] Read more.
The transition to clean and renewable energy sources is critically dependent on efficient hydrogen production technologies. This review surveys recent advances in photocatalytic water splitting, focusing on MNb2O6 nanomaterials, which have emerged as promising photocatalysts due to their tunable band structures, chemical robustness, and tailored morphologies. The objectives of this work are to (i) encompass the current synthesis strategies for MNb2O6 compounds; (ii) assess their structural, electronic, and optical properties in relation to photocatalytic performance; and (iii) elucidate the mechanisms underpinning enhanced hydrogen evolution. Main data collection methods include a literature review of experimental studies reporting bandgap measurements, structural analyses, and hydrogen production metrics for various MNb2O6 compositions—especially those incorporating transition metals such as Mn, Cu, Ni, and Co. Novelty stems from systematically detailing the relationships between synthesis routes (hydrothermal, solvothermal, electrospinning, etc.), crystallographic features, conductivity type, and bandgap tuning in these materials, as well as by benchmarking their performance against more conventional photocatalyst systems. Key findings indicate that MnNb2O6, CuNb2O6, and certain engineered heterostructures (e.g., with g-C3N4 or TiO2) display significant visible-light-driven hydrogen evolution, achieving hydrogen production rates up to 146 mmol h−1 g−1 in composite systems. The review spotlights trends in heterojunction design, defect engineering, co-catalyst integration, and the extension of light absorption into the visible range, all contributing to improved charge separation and catalytic longevity. However, significant challenges remain in realizing the full potential of the broader MNb2O6 family, particularly regarding efficiency, scalability, and long-term stability. The insights synthesized here serve as a guide for future experimental investigations and materials design, advancing the deployment of MNb2O6-based photocatalysts for large-scale, sustainable hydrogen production. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 2518 KiB  
Article
NiO/TiO2 p-n Heterojunction Induced by Radiolysis for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
by Ana Andrea Méndez-Medrano, Xiaojiao Yuan, Diana Dragoe, Christophe Colbeau-Justin, José Luis Rodríguez López and Hynd Remita
Materials 2025, 18(15), 3513; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18153513 - 26 Jul 2025
Viewed by 351
Abstract
Titanium dioxide (TiO2), a widely used semiconductor in photocatalysis owing to its adequate potential for water hydrolysis, chemical stability, low toxicity, and low cost. However, its efficiency is limited by fast charge-carrier recombination and poor visible light absorption. Coupling TiO2 [...] Read more.
Titanium dioxide (TiO2), a widely used semiconductor in photocatalysis owing to its adequate potential for water hydrolysis, chemical stability, low toxicity, and low cost. However, its efficiency is limited by fast charge-carrier recombination and poor visible light absorption. Coupling TiO2 with a p-type semiconductor, such as nickel oxide (NiO), forming a p-n heterojunction, decreases the recombination of charge carriers and increases photocatalytic activity. In this work, the surface of TiO2 modified with NiO nanoparticles (NPs) induced by radiolysis for photocatalytic hydrogen production was studied. The photocatalytic activity of NiO/TiO2 was evaluated using methanol as a hole scavenger under UV–visible light. All modified samples presented superior photocatalytic activity compared to bare TiO2. The dynamics of the charge carriers, a key electronic phenomenon in photocatalysis, was investigated by time-resolved microwave conductivity (TRMC). The results highlight the crucial role of Ni-based NPs modification in enhancing the separation of the charge carrier and activity under UV–visible irradiation. Furthermore, the results revealed that under visible irradiation, NiO-NPs inject electrons into the conduction band of titanium dioxide. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Advanced Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology)
Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 4461 KiB  
Review
Cocatalyst-Tipped One-Dimensional Nanorods for Enhanced Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production
by Longlu Wang, Kun Wang, Junkang Sun, Chen Gu, Yixiang Luo and Shiyan Wang
Catalysts 2025, 15(8), 711; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal15080711 - 26 Jul 2025
Viewed by 304
Abstract
The controllable loading of a cocatalyst on a semiconductor is the key to further improving the efficiency and stability of visible-light photocatalytic hydrogen production. It is of great practical significance to load a cocatalyst onto a semiconductor spatially separated to realize space charge [...] Read more.
The controllable loading of a cocatalyst on a semiconductor is the key to further improving the efficiency and stability of visible-light photocatalytic hydrogen production. It is of great practical significance to load a cocatalyst onto a semiconductor spatially separated to realize space charge separation for efficient photocatalytic hydrogen evolution. The inherent anisotropic morphology of one-dimensional nanorods can provide two spatially separated locations at the tip and side surfaces of the nanorods. In this review, we systematically summarize non-centrosymmetric and centrosymmetric cocatalyst-tipped one-dimensional (1D) photocatalysts, including their preparation method, catalytic hydrogen production performance, and catalytic mechanism. This review will bring new vitality to the design, preparation, and application of cocatalyst-tipped one-dimensional nanorods. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Photocatalysis)
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 4296 KiB  
Article
Enhanced Photocathodic Protection Performance of TiO2/NiCo2S4 Composites for 304 Stainless Steel
by Honggang Liu, Hong Li, Xuan Zhang, Baizhao Xing, Zhuangzhuang Sun and Yanhui Li
Coatings 2025, 15(8), 874; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15080874 - 25 Jul 2025
Viewed by 257
Abstract
To address the corrosion of 304 stainless steel in marine environments, TiO2/NiCo2S4 composite photoanodes were fabricated via anodic oxidation and hydrothermal methods. X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy, and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analyses indicated the growth [...] Read more.
To address the corrosion of 304 stainless steel in marine environments, TiO2/NiCo2S4 composite photoanodes were fabricated via anodic oxidation and hydrothermal methods. X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy, and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analyses indicated the growth of hexagonal NiCo2S4 particles on anatase TiO2 nanotube arrays, forming a type-II heterojunction. Spectroscopy of ultraviolet-visible diffuse reflectance absorption showed that NiCo2S4 extended TiO2’s light absorption into the visible region. Electrochemical tests revealed that under visible light, the composite photoanode decreased the corrosion potential of 304ss to −0.7 V vs. SCE and reduced charge transfer resistance by 20% compared to pure TiO2. The enhanced performance stemmed from efficient electron-hole separation and transport enabled by the type-II heterojunction. Cyclic voltammetry tests indicated the composite’s electrochemical active surface area increased 1.8-fold, demonstrating superior catalytic activity. In conclusion, the TiO2/NiCo2S4 composite photoanode offers an effective approach for marine corrosion protection of 304ss. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 1594 KiB  
Article
Molecular-Level Insights into Meta-Phenylenediamine and Sulfonated Zinc Phthalocyanine Interactions for Enhanced Polyamide Membranes: A DFT and TD-DFT Study
by Ameni Gargouri and Bassem Jamoussi
Polymers 2025, 17(15), 2019; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17152019 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 263
Abstract
Access to clean water is a pressing global concern and membrane technologies play a vital role in addressing this challenge. Thin-film composite membranes prepared via interfacial polymerization (IPol) using meta-phenylenediamine (MPD) and trimesoyl chloride (TMC) exhibit excellent separation performance, but face limitations such [...] Read more.
Access to clean water is a pressing global concern and membrane technologies play a vital role in addressing this challenge. Thin-film composite membranes prepared via interfacial polymerization (IPol) using meta-phenylenediamine (MPD) and trimesoyl chloride (TMC) exhibit excellent separation performance, but face limitations such as fouling and low hydrophilicity. This study investigated the interaction between MPD and sulfonated zinc phthalocyanine, Zn(SO2)4Pc, as a potential strategy for enhancing membrane properties. Using Density Functional Theory (DFT) and Time-Dependent DFT (TD-DFT), we analyzed the optimized geometries, electronic structures, UV–Vis absorption spectra, FT-IR vibrational spectra, and molecular electrostatic potentials of MPD, Zn(SO2)4Pc, and their complexes. The results show that MPD/Zn(SO2)4Pc exhibits reduced HOMO-LUMO energy gaps and enhanced charge delocalization, particularly in aqueous environments, indicating improved stability and reactivity. Spectroscopic features confirmed strong interactions via hydrogen bonding and π–π stacking, suggesting that Zn(SO2)4Pc can act as a co-monomer or additive during IPol to improve polyamide membrane functionality. A conformational analysis of MPD/Zn(SO2)4Pc was conducted using density functional theory (DFT) to evaluate the impact of dihedral rotation on molecular stability. The 120° conformation was identified as the most stable, due to favorable π–π interactions and intramolecular hydrogen bonding. These findings offer computational evidence for the design of high-performance membranes with enhanced antifouling, selectivity, and structural integrity for sustainable water treatment applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanocomposite Polymer Membranes for Advanced Water Treatment)
Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 734 KiB  
Article
The Influence of Electrostatic Separation Parameters on the Recovery of Metals from Pre-Crushed PCBs
by Antonio Manuel Lopez-Paneque, Victoria Humildad Gallardo García-Orta, Jose Maria Gallardo, Ranier Enrique Sepúlveda-Ferrer and Ernesto Chicardi
Metals 2025, 15(8), 826; https://doi.org/10.3390/met15080826 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 211
Abstract
Electrostatic separation is a promising technology for the recovery of valuable metals from electronic waste, particularly from printed circuit boards (PCBs). This study explores the application of electrostatic separation for the selective recovery of metallic and non-metallic fractions from crushed PCBs (PCBs). The [...] Read more.
Electrostatic separation is a promising technology for the recovery of valuable metals from electronic waste, particularly from printed circuit boards (PCBs). This study explores the application of electrostatic separation for the selective recovery of metallic and non-metallic fractions from crushed PCBs (PCBs). The process exploits the differences in electrical properties between conductive metals and non-conductive polymers and ceramics, facilitating their separation through applied electric fields. The raw materials were pre-treated via mechanical comminution using shredders and hammer mills to achieve an optimal particle size distribution (<3 mm), which enhances separation efficiency. Ferrous materials were removed prior to electrostatic separation to improve process selectivity. Key operational parameters, including particle size, charge accumulation, environmental conditions, and separation efficiency, were systematically analysed. The results demonstrate that electrostatic separation effectively recovers high-value metals such as copper and gold while minimizing material losses. Additionally, the process contributes to the sustainability of e-waste recycling by enabling the recovery of non-metallic fractions for potential secondary applications. This work underscores the significance of electrostatic separation as a viable technique for e-waste management and highlights optimization strategies for enhancing its performance in large-scale recycling operations. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 2806 KiB  
Article
Ni-MOF/g-C3N4 S-Scheme Heterojunction for Efficient Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction
by Muhammad Sabir, Mahmoud Sayed, Iram Riaz, Guogen Qiu, Muhammad Tahir, Khuloud A. Alibrahim and Wang Wang
Materials 2025, 18(14), 3419; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18143419 - 21 Jul 2025
Viewed by 429
Abstract
The rapid recombination of photoinduced charge carriers in semiconductors remains a significant challenge for their practical application in photocatalysis. This study presents the design of a step-scheme (S-scheme) heterojunction composed of carbon nitride (g-C3N4) and nickel-based metal–organic framework (Ni-MOF) [...] Read more.
The rapid recombination of photoinduced charge carriers in semiconductors remains a significant challenge for their practical application in photocatalysis. This study presents the design of a step-scheme (S-scheme) heterojunction composed of carbon nitride (g-C3N4) and nickel-based metal–organic framework (Ni-MOF) to achieve enhanced charge separation. The establishment of an S-scheme charge transfer configuration at the interface of the Ni-MOF/g-C3N4 heterostructure plays a pivotal role in enabling efficient charge carrier separation, and hence, high CO2 photoreduction efficiency with a CO evolution rate of 1014.6 µmol g−1 h−1 and selectivity of 95% under simulated solar illumination. CO evolution represents an approximately 3.7-fold enhancement compared to pristine Ni-MOF. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations, supported by in situ irradiated X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) experimental results, confirmed the establishment of a well-defined and strongly bonded interface, which improves the charge transfer and separation following the S-scheme mechanism. This study sheds light on MOF-based S-scheme heterojunctions as fruitful and selective alternatives for practical CO2 photoreduction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Energy Materials)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

14 pages, 1928 KiB  
Article
Ultraviolet Photocatalytic Performance of ZnO Nanorods Selectively Deposited with Bi2O3 Quantum Dots
by Baohui Lou, Chi Zhang, Xianhao Wu, Ying Liu, Xiangdong Feng, Feipeng Huang, Bowen Zhao and Zhengwang Zhu
Catalysts 2025, 15(7), 695; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal15070695 - 21 Jul 2025
Viewed by 308
Abstract
A strong interaction between Bi3+ and ZnO was used to successfully sensitize ZnO nanorods with quantum dots (QDs) of Bi2O3 through three different strategies. Although the Bi2O3 QDs had similar particle size distributions, their photocatalytic performance [...] Read more.
A strong interaction between Bi3+ and ZnO was used to successfully sensitize ZnO nanorods with quantum dots (QDs) of Bi2O3 through three different strategies. Although the Bi2O3 QDs had similar particle size distributions, their photocatalytic performance varied significantly, prompting the investigation of factors beyond particle size. The study revealed that the photochemical method selectively deposited Bi2O3 QDs onto electron-rich ZnO sites, providing a favorable pathway for efficient electron–hole separation and transfer. Consequently, abundant h+ and ·OH radicals were generated, which effectively degraded Rhodamine B (RhB). As demonstrated in the RhB degradation experiments, the Bi2O3/ZnO nanorod catalyst achieved an 89.3% degradation rate within 120 min, significantly outperforming catalysts with other morphologies. The photoluminescence (PL) and time-resolved photoluminescence (TRPL) results indicated that the Bi2O3/ZnO heterostructure constructed an effective interface to facilitate the spatial separation of photogenerated charge carriers, which effectively prolonged their lifetime. The electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) results confirmed that the ·OH radicals played a key role in the degradation process. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Catalytic Processes for Wastewater Treatment)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

12 pages, 7046 KiB  
Article
Cu–Co–O-Codoped Graphite Carbon Nitride as an Efficient Peroxymonosulfate Activator for Sulfamethoxazole Degradation: Characterization, Performance, and Mechanism
by Qiliang Xiao and Jun Nan
Water 2025, 17(14), 2161; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17142161 - 21 Jul 2025
Viewed by 360
Abstract
This study presents the development of a novel Cu–Co–O-codoped graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) catalyst for efficient peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation to degrade sulfamethoxazole (SMX) in aqueous environments. The synthesized Cu–Co–O-g-C3N4 catalyst demonstrated exceptional catalytic performance, achieving 90% [...] Read more.
This study presents the development of a novel Cu–Co–O-codoped graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) catalyst for efficient peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation to degrade sulfamethoxazole (SMX) in aqueous environments. The synthesized Cu–Co–O-g-C3N4 catalyst demonstrated exceptional catalytic performance, achieving 90% SMX removal within 10 min—significantly outperforming pristine g-C3N4 (14%) and O-doped g-C3N4 (22%)—with a reaction rate constant of 0.63 min−1. The superior activity was attributed to the synergistic effects of Cu-Co bimetallic doping and oxygen incorporation, which enhanced the active sites, stabilized metal ions, and minimized leaching. Mechanistic studies revealed a dual-pathway degradation process: (1) a radical pathway dominated by sulfate radicals (SO4) and (2) a non-radical pathway driven by singlet oxygen (1O2), with the latter identified as the dominant species through quenching experiments. The catalyst exhibited broad pH adaptability and optimal performance at neutral to alkaline conditions. Characterization techniques (XRD, FTIR, XPS) confirmed successful doping and revealed that oxygen incorporation modified the electronic structure of g-C3N4, improving charge carrier separation. This work provides a sustainable strategy for antibiotic removal, addressing key challenges in advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), and highlights the potential of multi-heteroatom-doped carbon nitride catalysts for water purification. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Wastewater Treatment and Reuse)
Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 1808 KiB  
Article
CdZnS Nanowire Decorated with Graphene for Efficient Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
by Zemeng Wang, Yunsheng Shen, Qingsheng Liu, Tao Deng, Kangqiang Lu and Zhaoguo Hong
Molecules 2025, 30(14), 3042; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30143042 - 20 Jul 2025
Viewed by 244
Abstract
Harnessing abundant and renewable solar energy for photocatalytic hydrogen production is a highly promising approach to sustainable energy generation. To realize the practical implementation of such systems, the development of photocatalysts that simultaneously exhibit high activity, cost-effectiveness, and long-term stability is critically important. [...] Read more.
Harnessing abundant and renewable solar energy for photocatalytic hydrogen production is a highly promising approach to sustainable energy generation. To realize the practical implementation of such systems, the development of photocatalysts that simultaneously exhibit high activity, cost-effectiveness, and long-term stability is critically important. In this study, a Cd0.8Zn0.2S nanowire photocatalytic system decorated with graphene (GR) was prepared by a simple hydrothermal method. The introduction of graphene increased the reaction active area of Cd0.8Zn0.2S, promoted the separation of photogenerated charge carriers in the semiconductor, and improved the photocatalytic performance of the Cd0.8Zn0.2S semiconductor. The results showed that Cd0.8Zn0.2S loaded with 5% graphene exhibited the best photocatalytic activity, with a hydrogen production rate of 1063.4 µmol·g−1·h−1. Characterization data revealed that the graphene cocatalyst significantly enhances electron transfer kinetics in Cd0.8Zn0.2S, thereby improving the separation efficiency of photogenerated charge carriers. This study demonstrates a rational strategy for designing high-performance, low-cost composite photocatalysts using earth-abundant cocatalysts, advancing sustainable hydrogen production. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Photochemistry)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Back to TopTop