A novel 3D nanofibrous aerogel-based MoS2@Co3S4 heterojunction photocatalyst for water remediation and hydrogen evolution under simulated solar irradiation

Abstract

The integration of nanostructured photocatalysts into 3D ordered assemblies holds great promise for boosting their dispersibility and stability, and thus allows for the development of competitive strategies for enhancing their photocatalytic performance for various applications. In addition, heterostructure construction for photocatalysts is another effective method to improve their catalytic activity because of the remarkable role the heterostructure plays in charge separation. In this study, a dual-templated method for fabricating molybdenum disulfide@cobaltosic sulfide on nanofibrous aerogel (MoS2@Co3S4/NFA) was effectively used. The NFA carrier comprising bi-component nanofibers was successfully used as the first step template for in-situ growth of ZIF-67. Moreover, ZIF-67 could convert into Co3S4 and be used as the second template for MoS2. The MoS2@Co3S4/NFA delivered excellent photocatalytic activity toward typical contaminants (Cr(VI), sulfamethoxazole, and bacteria), and good hydrogen evolution activity. This paper describes a novel photocatalyst design strategy and opens new horizons for solving environmental and energy issues.