“Tube brush” like ZnO/SiO2 hybrid to construct a flexible membrane with enhanced photocatalytic properties and recycling ability

Abstract

In this work, a combination of two fabrication methods, i.e.electrospinning and the hydrothermal reaction, are used to fabricate a ZnO/SiO₂ hierarchical structure. The structure is made up of silica fibers as the backbone for supporting the epitaxial growth of ZnO nanorods. The structure resembles a “tube brush” like morphology with a high porosity and surface area, both of which are vital factors in water purification. This fabrication method offers a way to construct a flexible membrane of functional composites with a hierarchical structure. To aid the electron–hole separation, Ag modified ZnO/SiO₂ hierarchical structures were further obtained through a facile photo reduction method. The membrane after Ag modification shows enhancement in photocatalytic efficiency as well as superior recycling ability, which is promising for future applications in water remediation.