MoS2-coupled coniferous ZnO for photocatalytic degradation of dyes

Background: The modification of ZnO through structural engineering and coupling with different 2D materials as a photocatalyst has received considerable attention. Few studies have reported the coupling of 2D material, MoS2, with ZnO for photocatalysis. However, no study has been conducted on MoS2-coupled coniferous T-shaped ZnO and its photocatalytic performance to the best of our knowledge.Methods: In this study, the flame transport synthesis technique was employed for the preparation of coniferous T-shaped ZnO (T-ZnO). The as-prepared coniferous-like T-ZnO was coupled with MoS2 by hydrothermal treatment at 200 degrees C for 18 h and used for the photocatalytic dye removal.Significant findings: After coupling with MoS2, T-ZnO and spherical O-shape (O-ZnO) exhibited improved pho-tocatalytic activities for the removal of dyes (methyl blue (MB) and rhodamine B (RhB)). Thanks to the heter-ojunction formation between MoS2 and ZnO, the electron transfer could be facilitated, evidenced by the small Tafel slope with a value of approximately 95.6 mv dec-1. Moreover, the MoS2@T-ZnO sample could be recycled for photocatalytic MB removal at least 5 times. Our results suggested that the coupling of MoS2 over structural -engineered ZnO could be an alternative approach to further improving the photocatalytic activity of ZnO.

Automated summary

In this study, MoS2-coupled coniferous T-shaped ZnO photocatalyst was prepared and its improved photocatalytic activity for dye removal was demonstrated. The heterojunction formation between MoS2 and ZnO facilitated electron transfer, leading to enhanced photocatalytic performance. The MoS2@T-ZnO sample could be recycled for at least 5 times, indicating the potential application of MoS2 coupling in improving ZnO photocatalysis.