ZnAl2O4/sulfur-doped g-C3N4 S-scheme heterojunction for efficient photocatalytic degradation of malachite green

In this study, ZnAl2O4 and sulfur-doped g-C3N4 (SCN) S-Scheme heterojunctions were successfully prepared by in situ self-assembly method for the efficient removal of malachite green (MG). The composite structure was formed by loading ZnAl2O4 nanoscale particles onto SCN nanosheets. The results showed that the 30 wt% ZnAl2O4/SCN composite exhibited the best photocatalytic properties. The degradation of malachite green (MG) by 30 wt% ZnAl2O4/SCN composite reached 98.3% after 120 min of simulated solar illumination. Photo-induced •O2− was regarded as the primary active substance in the MG photodegradation. This study is expected to provide new possible strategies for the removal of contaminants MG in water.