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Heterostructure charge transfer dynamics on self-assembled ZnO on electronically different single-walled carbon
Debika Devi Thongam1, Harsh Chaturvedi1
1School of Energy Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Assam, 781039, India.
Chemosphere
|February 25, 2023
Summary
Single-Walled Carbon Nanotube (SWCNT)-ZnO heterostructures significantly enhance photocatalytic degradation of water contaminants. This advanced oxidation process utilizes improved charge transfer for efficient pollutant removal and catalyst recyclability.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Environmental Chemistry
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Advanced oxidation processes (AOP) are crucial for degrading persistent water pollutants.
- Catalyst charge transfer kinetics are vital for AOP efficiency.
- Single-Walled Carbon Nanotube (SWCNT)-ZnO heterostructures offer potential for improved photocatalysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the photocatalytic performance of SWCNT/ZnO heterostructures for water contaminant degradation.
- To study the charge transfer dynamics and factors influencing AOP in these heterostructures.
- To evaluate the stability and recyclability of the developed photocatalyst.
Main Methods:
- ZnO nanoparticles were self-assembled onto metallic, semiconducting, and pristine SWCNTs.
- Precipitation method was used to create SWCNT/ZnO heterojunction interfaces.
- Photocatalytic degradation efficiency was tested using RhB dye under natural sunlight and UV light.
Main Results:
- SWCNT/ZnO heterostructures exhibited enhanced charge transfer and separation, with a charge carrier lifetime of 7.37 ns.
- Surface area, pore size, and pore volume increased significantly (4.2 times) compared to ZnO.
- The floating photocatalyst achieved 99% RhB degradation under sunlight and 94% under UV light after five cycles.
- Surface defects and ideal band edge positions facilitated reactive oxygen species generation.
Conclusions:
- SWCNT/ZnO heterostructures demonstrate superior photocatalytic activity for water purification.
- The enhanced performance is attributed to improved charge transfer, increased surface area, and defect-induced active sites.
- The developed floating photocatalyst shows high stability and recyclability, making it suitable for practical applications.
