ZnAl2O4/sulfur-doped g-C3N4 S-scheme heterojunction for efficient photocatalytic degradation of malachite green

In this study, ZnAl2O4 and sulfur-doped g-C3N4 (SCN) S-Scheme heterojunctions were successfully prepared by in situ self-assembly method for the efficient removal of malachite green (MG). The composite structure was formed by loading ZnAl2O4 nanoscale particles onto SCN nanosheets. The results showed that the 30 wt% ZnAl2O4/SCN composite exhibited the best photocatalytic properties. The degradation of malachite green (MG) by 30 wt% ZnAl2O4/SCN composite reached 98.3% after 120 min of simulated solar illumination. Photo-induced center dot O-2 was regarded as the primary active substance in the MG photodegradation. This study is expected to provide new possible strategies for the removal of contaminants MG in water.

Automated summary

ZnAl2O4 and sulfur-doped g-C3N4 (SCN) S-Scheme heterojunctions were prepared for efficient removal of malachite green (MG) using an in situ self-assembly method. The composite structure consisted of ZnAl2O4 nanoscale particles loaded onto SCN nanosheets. The 30 wt% ZnAl2O4/SCN composite showed the best photocatalytic properties, with a 98.3% degradation of MG after 120 min of simulated solar illumination. The primary active substance in the MG photodegradation was identified as photo-induced center dot O-2. This study provides new possible strategies for the removal of MG contaminants in water.