Work

Nitrogen-Doped Hollow Carbon Spheres-Decorated Co2SnO4/WS2 Heterostructures with Improved Visible-Light Photocatalytic Degradation of Organic Dye

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Advanced photocatalytic materials for environmental cleanup need to be developed in response to growing concerns about water pollution. This paper presents a novel N-doped hollow carbon spheres (NHCSs)-supported Co2SnO4/WS2 heterostructure synthesized using a hydrothermal approach and examined using various characterization techniques to evaluate the crystal structures, functional groups, surface morphology, chemical properties, and optical characteristics. The photocatalytic performance of the Co2SnO4/WS2@NHCSs composite was assessed by degrading Congo red (CR) under visible light, resulting in a notable degradation rate of 87.22% in 60 min. The enhanced degradation efficiency is ascribed to the Z-scheme heterojunction charge-transfer mechanism, which augments sustained charge separation while suppressing recombination under visible-light irradiation. Furthermore, the quenching experiments revealed that specific superoxide radicals (•O2-) and hydroxyl radicals (•OH) were integral to the degradation reaction, and a potential Z-scheme charge-transfer pathway mechanism for the effective Co2SnO4/WS2@NHCSs photocatalysts was also suggested. The potential degradation mechanism was suggested using LC-MS analysis. This study highlights the promise of Co2SnO4/WS2@NHCSs composites for practical wastewater treatment applications, providing a sustainable and effective solution for environmental remediation.

Source: Molecules

DOI: 10.3390/molecules30092081

Authors: Muthuraj Arunpandian, Tae Hwan Oh

Institution: Yeungnam University

Language: English

Topic: Advanced Photocatalysis Techniques

Subfield: Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment

Field: Energy

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Clean water and sanitation, Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,258