Deep photocatalytic NO oxidation on ZnTi-LDH: Pivotal role of surface hydroxyls dynamic evolution

Surface defect engineering has been regarded as an appealing strategy to improve photocatalytic performance, but defects are susceptible to inactivation and thus lose their function as active sites. In this study, we successfully tailored and identified the dynamic evolution of surface hydroxyl defects over ZnTi-layered double hydroxide (ZnTi-LDH) photocatalyst. The enrichment of surface hydroxyl electrons and the dynamic circulation of hydroxyl defects result in enhanced separation and transport capabilities of photogenerated carriers, thereby ensuring the perpetual activation of small molecules into •O₂^- and •OH. The optimized structure has demonstrated NO removal efficiency values as high as 70.0 %, while concurrently suppressing the emission of NO₂ - a dangerous byproduct. Furthermore, ZnTi-LDH exhibits remarkable adaptability to varying environmental conditions and satisfactory durability over extended periods of reaction. This research offers valuable insights into the key role of surface hydroxyl in sustainable NOx removal technologies, and the findings contribute significantly to the advancement of environmental remediations.