Abstract
The photocatalytic disinfection capability of the natural semiconducting mineral sphalerite is studied here for the first time. Natural sphalerite can completely inactivate 1.5 × 10(7) cfu/mL E. coli K-12 within 6 h under visible light irradiation. The photocatalytic disinfection mechanism of natural sphalerite is investigated using multiple scavengers. The critical role that electrons play in bactericidal actions is experimentally demonstrated. The involvement of H(2)O(2) in photocatalytic disinfection is also confirmed using a partition system combined with different scavengers. Moreover, the photocatalytic destruction of bacterial cells is observed through transmission electron microscopic analysis. A catalase activity study reveals that antioxidative enzyme activity is high in the initial stage of photocatalytic disinfection but decreases with time due to damage to enzymatic functioning. Natural sphalerite is abundant and easy to obtain and possesses excellent visible-light photocatalytic activity. These superior properties make it a promising solar-driven photocatalyst for large-scale cost-effective wastewater treatment.
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 callDisclaimer: 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.
