Directionally Designed Double Z‐Scheme Heterojunction: BiOBr and Carbon Dots‐Reduced TiO 2−x for Targeted Photocarriers Separation in Photocatalytic Sterilization
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: TiO 2 photocatalysis holds promise for sterilization but faces limitations in rapid charge recombination, UV‐restricted activity, and pathogen electrostatic repulsion. Herein, a directionally designed double direct Z‐scheme BiOBr@CDs‐TiO 2− x heterojunction is constructed, in which defective BiOBr microspheres core with dominant (110) facets exhibiting photochromism via hole trapping is synergistically integrated with carbon dots (CDs)‐modified TiO 2− x shell. Amine‐functionalized CDs simultaneously reduce and dope TiO 2− x , thereby generating oxygen vacancies and enhancing positive surface charges. By leveraging BiOBr's hole‐trapping affinity and CDs’ electron‐transmitting capability, BiOBr@CDs‐TiO 2− x achieves spatial charge separation via a double Z‐scheme mechanism. This system eradicates 99.9% of Escherichia coli (5 × 10 8 CFU mL −1 ), Staphylococcus aureus (2 × 10 8 CFU mL −1 ), and Candida albicans (1 × 10 8 CFU mL −1 ) in 1 h, concomitantly achieving biofilm clearance and pollutant degradation under visible light. The work pioneers CDs’ novel application in constructing oxygen vacancies of TiO 2− x and establishes a carrier‐affinity‐driven paradigm for directional heterojunction design.
Source: Small
Authors: Shurui Cong, Shuyuan Zhou, Junqin You, Lei Wang, Xiaoying Wang
Institution: South China University of Technology
Language: English
Field: Energy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W4413100040