Issue 30, 2025

Hierarchical 0D/3D Z-scheme heterojunction of ZnO quantum dots/flower-like Bi2MoO6 microspheres for efficient photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline

Abstract

The rapid development of modernization has accelerated environmental degradation, and antibiotic-induced water pollution has become one of the most concerning issues. In this study, a Z-scheme heterojunction catalyst of ZnO quantum dots (QDs)/Bi2MoO6 with a hierarchical 0D/3D structure was fabricated via a simple ultrasonic impregnation method for the photodegradation of the representative antibiotic tetracycline (TC). This hierarchical 0D/3D heterojunction consists of flower-like Bi2MoO6 microspheres assembled from nanosheets and ZnO QDs decorated on the nanosheets. The photocatalytic activity of the optimal heterojunction catalyst 8%ZnO QDs/Bi2MoO6 was 1.81 times that of pure Bi2MoO6. The enhanced photocatalytic activity of 8%ZnO QDs/Bi2MoO6 results from its broadened light absorption and efficient separation of photogenerated charge carriers, as evidenced by UV-vis DRS, photoluminescence spectroscopy, and transient photocurrent response. Under optimal degradation conditions, the photocatalytic degradation efficiency of TC by 8%ZnO QDs/Bi2MoO6 reached 94.20% within 120 min under simulated sunlight. Furthermore, 8%ZnO QDs/Bi2MoO6 exhibited robust performance in a complex environment. Additionally, combining the results of active species trapping experiments, the Mott–Schottky curve, and band structure analysis, a Z-scheme photocatalytic mechanism for the 8%ZnO QDs/Bi2MoO6 heterojunction was proposed. This work offers a sustainable solution for real aqueous environment remediation.

Graphical abstract: Hierarchical 0D/3D Z-scheme heterojunction of ZnO quantum dots/flower-like Bi2MoO6 microspheres for efficient photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline

Supplementary files

Article information

Article type
Paper
Submitted
15 Apr 2025
Accepted
13 Jun 2025
First published
18 Jun 2025

New J. Chem., 2025,49, 13024-13040

Hierarchical 0D/3D Z-scheme heterojunction of ZnO quantum dots/flower-like Bi2MoO6 microspheres for efficient photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline

N. Chen, L. Gou, M. Hu, C. Wang, L. Tan, D. Zhao and H. Feng, New J. Chem., 2025, 49, 13024 DOI: 10.1039/D5NJ01633A

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