Abstract

Magnetic Fe3O4@ZnO@nitrogen-doped carbon (Fe3O4@ZnO@N-C) composites with multiple core-shell structures have been successfully synthesized by calcination of ZIF-8 coated Fe3O4@ZnO core-shell nanocrystals. The morphologies and microstructural characteristics are investigated by X-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared spectrometer, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, physical adsorption of nitrogen, and UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. The photocatalytic performances are tested by degrading methylene blue (MB) in aqueous solutions under the irradiation of imitative sunlight. The photocatalytic trials indicate that the Fe3O4@ZnO@N-C composites exhibit improved degradation efficiency compared to the Fe3O4@ZnO precursor. The photocatalytic efficiencies of the as-prepared Fe3O4@ZnO@N-C composites towards MB are 93% under irradiation of imitative sunlight for 90 min and still maintained to be 87% after 6 recycles, which shows very good stability and recyclability. Nitrogen-doped carbon is believed to extend the absorption spectra to the visible-light region. The photodegradation kinetics via using the as-prepared Fe3O4@ZnO@N-C composite as a novel photocatalyst are systematically investigated.

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