Abstract

We developed a simple thermolysis method for fabricating effective photocatalysts for the decomposition of organic pollutants under sunlight. Zinc oxide-deposited carbon spheres (ZDCS) were prepared via a one-pot process in a solvent- and catalyst-free environment. The ZDCS composite exhibited a strong light absorption band across the whole visible range, a very good dispersion concentration (1.84 mg/mL) in organic solvents without the need for surfactants, ionic liquids, or stabilizers, and a high electrical conductivity (∼1300 S/m). These materials were shown to be useful for decomposing organic pollutants under sunlight. The reaction time (105 min), degradation percentage (98.2%), and recycling performance suggested that ZDCS act as an excellent photocatalyst under visible light illumination for the decomposition of methylene blue. The enhanced physicochemical properties of the ZDCS are due to the covalent interaction between the carbon core and ZnO outer layer, which increases the lifetime of photo-generated charge carriers.

Full Text
Paper version not known

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.