Hydrothermal integration of MoO2–MoS2@rGO nanoframe networks: A promising approach for efficient bacterial disinfection in wastewater

Abstract

The efficient disinfection of bacterial contaminants in wastewater is a critical challenge in the field of environmental remediation. Herein, we present a novel approach for efficient bacterial disinfection using hydrothermally integrated MoO2–MoS2@rGO nanoframe networks. The developed nanoframe networks exhibit a unique architecture comprising of molybdenum dioxide (MoO2) and molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) impregnated on algae biomass reduced graphene oxide (rGO). The as-synthesized nanoframe networks demonstrate exceptional antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli bacteria. The disinfection efficiency was evaluated by measuring the bacterial viability and observing the morphological changes using scanning electron microscopy. The MoO2–MoS2@rGO nanoframe networks exhibited a remarkable antibacterial effect, achieving a high disinfection rate of 95.8% within a short contact time of 10 min. The efficient bacterial disinfection capability of the nanoframe networks can be attributed to the synergistic effects of MoO2, MoS2, and rGO components. The MoO2 nanoparticles generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), persuading oxidative stress and leading to bacterial inactivation. The MoS2 nanoparticles possess inherent antibacterial properties through the release of Mo and S ions. The rGO nanosheets provide a conductive and stable platform, facilitating the charge transfer during the antibacterial process. Furthermore, the hydrothermal integration method enables easy scalability and cost-effectiveness of the MoO2–MoS2@rGO nanoframe networks. The nanoframe networks can be easily recovered and reused, reducing waste generation and promoting sustainability. Overall, this study presents a promising approach for efficient bacterial disinfection in wastewater using hydrothermally integrated MoO2–MoS2@rGO nanoframe networks. The remarkable antibacterial performance, along with the advantages of scalability and reusability, makes these nanoframe networks a potential candidate for practical applications in environmental remediation and water treatment processes.