Abstract
In this study, we report a simple one-pot solvothermal route of FeS2 (pyrite)/GO (graphene oxide) nanocomposites that exhibit outstanding physicochemical properties as efficient catalysts towards dual functionality of water treating and water-splitting applications. The FeS2/GO (FSG) nanocomposites of varying FeS2 to GO weight ratios were prepared and characterized for physicochemical properties. The introduction of GO mediated the morphology and structural properties to aligned FeS2 spherical nanoparticles within the GO network compared with pristine FeS2 cubical nanostructures. In water treatment applications, the synthesized FSG nanocomposite with FeS2 to GO ratio of 4:3 was highly effective for the complete degradation (∼99%), significant mineralization (>70%), and complete detoxification of antibiotic amoxicillin (AMCT) under the optimal solar-Fenton treatment when compared to bare FeS2, and other FSG nanocomposites. Radical scavenging experiments, leaching profile for iron (Fe) species (total Fe, Fe(II), and Fe(III)), decomposition profile of hydrogen peroxide, and HO• generation in the reaction medium helps to postulate the possible reaction mechanisms for AMCT degradation. The greatly enhanced catalytic performance of FeS2/GO was correlated with efficient recycling of Fe(II)/Fe(III), higher solar-light absorptivity due to the GO existence, and synergistic coupling of FeS2 and GO evidenced through the strong formation of Fe-O chemical bonds as confirmed by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. Finally, the nanocomposites achieved enhanced apparent quantum efficiency for hydrogen generation through a water-splitting reaction. The reaction mechanism of FSG nanocomposite for water-splitting was proposed accordingly. Overall, this work could provide new insights for developing potential nanocomposite materials for widespread energy generation and environmental remediation applications.
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