Heterostructured Cu₂O-Au nanowire as a dual-functional nanocomposite for environmental pollutant degradation and...

Materials engineering is generally regarded as one of the most effective methods in the construction of photocatalysts, but it still faces many challenges. In this context, we designed and prepared a three-dimensional (3D) heterostructure of nanowires (NWs) formed by Cu₂O core and an Au shell. The Cu₂O-Au NWs not only show fine photocatalytic ability but also proved to have Fenton-like chemical properties and can be used as a hydrogen peroxide sensor. Moreover, this heterostructure realizes an integration of catalytic efficiency, retrievability, and versatility. In further consideration of the facile preparation process and low-cost material source of the structure, the Cu₂O-Au NWs show a promising application prospect in the field of multifunctional photocatalysts.