Ta3N5/CdS Core-Shell S-scheme Heterojunction Nanofibers for Efficient Photocatalytic Removal of Antibiotic Tetracycline and Cr(VI): Performance and Mechanism Insights

Ta3N5/CdS core-shell S-scheme heterojunction nanofibers are fabricated by in situ growing CdS nanodots on Ta3N5 nanofibers via a simple wet-chemical method. These Ta3N5/CdS nanofibers not only affords superior photocatalytic tetracycline degradation and mineralization performance, but also cause an efficient photocatalytic Cr(VI) reduction performance. The creation of favorable core-shell fiber-shaped S-scheme hetero-structure with tightly contacted interface and the maximum interface contact area promises the effective photo-carrier disintegration and the optimal photo-redox capacity synchronously, thus leading to the preeminent photo-redox ability. Some critical environmental factors on the photo-behavior of Ta3N5/CdS are also evaluated in view of the complexity of the authentic aquatic environment. The degradation products of tetracycline were confirmed by HPLC-MS analyses. Furthermore, the effective decline in eco-toxicity of TC intermediates is confirmed by QSAR calculation. This work provides cutting-edge guidelines for the design of high-performance Ta3N5-based S-scheme heterojunction nanofibers for environment restoration.

Automated summary

Ta3N5/CdS core-shell S-scheme heterojunction nanofibers were prepared by growing CdS nanodots on Ta3N5 nanofibers via a wet-chemical method. These nanofibers exhibit excellent photocatalytic degradation and mineralization performance for tetracycline, as well as efficient photocatalytic reduction performance for Cr(VI). The formation of a favorable core-shell fiber-shaped S-scheme heterostructure with tightly contacted interface and maximum interface contact area ensures effective photo-carrier disintegration and optimal photo-redox capacity, leading to superior photo-redox ability. Furthermore, critical environmental factors and the degradation products of tetracycline were evaluated, and the decrease in eco-toxicity of TC intermediates was confirmed.