Mn-N/C interfacial bridge accelerating electrons transfer of MnCO3/α-Ni(OH)2 to promote surface adsorbates activation for favorable photocatalytic NO oxidation

Abstract

Photocatalytic technology has been proven to be an effective strategy for addressing NOx pollution. However, the lack of adsorbates activation ability of photocatalysts results in the formation of secondary toxic by-products. Herein, MnCO3/α-Ni(OH)2 composite photocatalyst was developed through one-pot hydrothermal method. The introduction of MnCO3 not only improves visible light absorption, but also generates new Mn-C and Mn-N interfacial bridge structures between the exposed Mn atoms of MnCO3 and the C/N functional groups of α-Ni(OH)2. This unique structure speeds up the migration of photogenerated electrons and holes, promoting surface-adsorbed O2 and NO co-activation. Photocatalytic activity test shows that MnCO3/α-Ni(OH)2 has enhanced NO oxidation activity without producing harmful NO2 by-products. This research offers a fresh perspective on the surface adsorbates activation to prevent secondary toxic by-product generation.