A pine cone-like SnO2/Bi2O2CO3 Z-scheme heterojunction photocatalyst enhances the photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline

X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) confirmed successful heterojunction formation and revealed unique interfacial electronic properties. Photocatalytic experiments demonstrated that the SBC heterojunction significantly outperformed the individual components in degrading TC, achieving a TC removal efficiency of 81% after 70 min. This enhancement is attributed to the efficient separation and transfer of photogenerated charge carriers facilitated by the Z-scheme heterojunction structure.