Synergistic piezo-photocatalysis enabled by BaTiO₃/pDEB hybrids for efficient organic pollutant degradation

This study presents the synthesis and characterization of BaTiO₃/pDEB hybrid materials engineered for enhanced piezo-photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants under visible light irradiation and ultrasonic vibration. By integrating the piezoelectric properties of BaTiO₃ with the visible light absorption and charge transport capabilities of poly-(1,4-diethynyl benzene) (pDEB), the BaTiO₃/pDEB hybrids achieved efficient separation of photogenerated charge carriers, significantly improving its piezo-photocatalysis activity. Driven by the synergistic effects of piezocatalysis and photocatalysis, the optimized BaTiO₃/pDEB_5:2 hybrids reach a complete BPA removal within 30 min, primarily through ·OH radical production. Additionally, toxicological assessments indicate reduced environmental toxicity of BPA degradation intermediates is achieved. These findings underscore the potential of BaTiO₃/pDEB composites in sustainable pollutant remediation, advancing piezo-photocatalytic applications in environmental protection.