Three-dimensional CuS hierarchical architectures as recyclable catalysts for dye decolorization
Abstract
In the current paper, we report the synthesis of three-dimensional (3D) copper sulfide (CuS) with novel tertiary hierarchical architectures prepared by a one-step solvothermal method through the reaction of sulfur powder and solid copper for the first time. In this work, porous copper foam is used as the template. In this material, the primary structure is the multi-structure interchange copper foam precursor, the secondary structure is 10–20 μm cubic solids, and the tertiary structure is interpenetrating flakes with a thickness of 40–50 nm. Owing to the obtained hierarchical structure, the CuS material grows firmly in situ on a 3D copper template. This stable 3D framework will make the recycling of the material into a heterogeneous catalyst facile. This catalyst shows highly efficient heterogeneous catalytic properties in degrading dye-containing solutions, such as methylene blue (MB), rhodamine B (RB), and their mixed solution. The 3D structure of Fenton-like CuS catalysts plays an important role in the degradation process of MB and RB solvents with the help of H2O2 which can yield highly reactive hydroxyl radicals. This catalyst is easy to recycle, and it can be used as a degrading catalyst in highly concentrated dye wastewater because of its low cost, simple operation, and highly efficient properties.