A colorimetric detection strategy and micromotor-assisted photo-Fenton like degradation for hydroquinone based on the peroxidase-like activity of Co3O4–CeO2 nanocages

Abstract

Micromotors have great potential in environmental monitoring and treatment. Herein, ZIF-67 derived Co₃O₄–CeO₂ micromotors with a porous nanocage structure were synthesized by the ingenious combination of template scarification and calcination methods. Co₃O₄ inherited the typical porous structure of the ZIF-67 precursor and its skeleton offered a substrate for uniform in situ growth of CeO₂ nanoparticles. The ZIF-67 derived Co₃O₄–CeO₂ revealed a unique nanocage structure with a broken corner, resulting in the autonomous movement in the presence of H₂O₂. Based on the combination of peroxide-like activity, self-propelled motion and photo-Fenton like performance, a strategy to selectively and sensitively detect and quickly remove hydroquinone (HQ) from water was established. Taken together, this novel Co₃O₄–CeO₂ nanocage-based micromotor could be effectively harnessed for water treatment.