Bagasse cellulose-based S-type Bi₂O₃/Zn₃In₂S₆ photocatalyst for efficient and stable degradation of...

The environmental and human health hazards posed by 2,4-dichlorophenol (2,4-DCP) call for effective degradation technologies. This research investigates the design and application of a Bi₂O₃/Zn₃In₂S₆ heterojunction photocatalyst, a 'S scheme', which was constructed via a simple hydrothermal method. The photocatalyst was then embedded in a sugarcane bagasse cellulose carrier (SBC/BO/ZIS), demonstrating excellent 2,4-DCP degradation capacity. The results show that S-type Bi₂O₃/Zn₃In₂S₆ promotes the separation of photogenerated carriers. The SBC/BO/ZIS complex, in comparison with Bi₂O₃ and Zn₃In₂S₆ alone, amplifies specific surface area (91.7880 m²/g) and broadens the light absorption range (570 nm) of materials, showing robust photocatalytic performance. The degradation rate of 50 mg/L 2,4-DCP reached an impressive 97% within 120 min. The encapsulation of BO/ZIS in SBC not only increases the efficiency of material recovery and recycling but also allows for continuous degradation of 2,4-DCP in cyclic manners, maintaining a degradation rate between 90% and 97%. XRD characterization shows that the physical properties of the material are not affected. The degradation of 2,4-DCP was dominantly controlled by active species (·OH and ·O₂^-) identified by electron paramagnetic resonance analysis and free radical trapping experiments. This innovative design significantly enhances sunlight utilization and effectively curbs charge carrier recombination, while also promoting material recovery and utilization. These attributes establish a foundation for a cost-effective and efficient means of treating actual wastewater containing 2,4-DCP.