Heteroatom-engineered SWCNT/TiO2 heterojunctions for enhanced photocatalytic charge transfer and pollutant photodegradation
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Semiconductor/carbon heterojunctions are powerful photocatalysts for environmental remediation; however, the link between the interfacial characteristics of both components (e.g., presence of surface functionalities) and photocatalytic performance remains insufficiently understood. This study investigates TiO 2 /carbon heterojunctions formed on surface-functionalized single-walled carbon nanotubes (sf-SWCNTs), focusing on how heteroatom doping (-O, -N, -P) of the carbon material modulates the heterojunction's photocatalytic properties. The structural analysis of the materials confirmed the formation of the heterojunction, characterized by the crystalline fingerprint of TiO 2 and the graphitic lattice of the sf-SWCNTs. The surface chemistry analysis identified carboxyl/anhydride, pyridinic/pyrrolic nitrogen, and COPO 3 /CPO 3 groups as key surface functionalities of the heterojunctions, leading to enhanced visible-light absorption and charge-carrier separation. The photocatalytic tests for the degradation of a model cationic organic pollutant highlighted TiO 2 /O-SWCNT as the most efficient photocatalyst to achieve degradation within 2 h, while maintaining high activity across multiple continuous cycles and facile regeneration. Scavenger studies revealed that surface functionalization promotes interfacial charge transfer, favoring both radical-mediated and direct hole oxidation pathways. Overall, this study outlines the role of heteroatom functionalities in tailoring the optical and electronic properties of TiO 2 /carbon heterojunctions, ultimately providing valuable insights for the rational design of advanced photocatalysts.
Source: Carbon
Language: English
Field: Energy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $4,830
Awards: G3801522158, G9001302441, G9001303885
OpenAlex ID: W7221539829