Constructing Z-scheme NiMoO₄@Co₃O₄ core-shell heterogeneous architectures with prominent photoelectrocatalytic...

Photoelectrocatalysis (PEC) oxidation is an efficient and eco-friendly advanced oxidation process (AOP), which is a hot research topic in the treatment of organic wastewater. The selection of superior photoelectrode materials is the critical factor affecting PEC efficiency and the main challenge in practical application. In this work, novel NiMoO₄@Co₃O₄ hierarchical core-shell heterogeneous photoanodes were prepared through a two-step hydrothermal method and exhibited superior catalytic performance in the degradation of reactive brilliant blue KN-R. The wrapping of NiMoO₄ nanosheets on Co₃O₄ nanowires electrode can enlarge its contact area with electrolyte, enable fast redox reaction and improve the long-term durability. The unique Z-scheme heterojunction structure between the two components ensured the effective separation of photo-generated carriers, facilitating the generation of OH and O^2- during the PEC degradation process. The optimal NiMoO₄@Co₃O₄-1.25 hierarchical architecture anode catalyst exhibited the highest removal rate of 83.65% of reactive brilliant blue KN-R in 120 min with long-term stability (∼12000 s) in 1.0 mol·L^-1 H₂SO₄ solution. This report may inspire the design and fabrication of heterostructure photoanode in water purification.