MoO3-MWCNT nanocomposite photocatalyst with control of light-harvesting under visible light and natural sunlight irradiation

Abstract

One of the most challenging tasks in solar energy utilization is the quest for inexpensive and stable photocatalysts which can efficiently utilize solar irradiation or interior lighting. Here we report new porous MoO₃-MWCNT nanocomposites with excellent chemical stability which can efficiently decompose organic contaminants in aqueous solution under light visible and natural sunlight irradiation. The precise control of light harvesting and photocatalytic efficiency was achieved by controlling the quantity of MWCNTs in the nanocomposites. In comparison to other photocatalysts, porous photocatalysts are chemically and thermally stable and provide excellent electron transfer during photocatalytic reactions. Overall, this work shows that the synthesized MoO₃-MWCNT nanocomposites can be efficiently used to improve the disinfection and decontamination of water under light visible and natural sunlight irradiation.