Construct interesting CuS/TiO2 architectures for effective removal of Cr(VI) in simulated wastewater via the strong synergistic adsorption and photocatalytic process

Most of the reduction processes for Cr (VI) removal tend to be available only at the acidic condition and the capable extent of pH is limited. Here, we developed a facile strategy for constructing CuS/TiO 2 architectures via a facile precipitation process. The as-prepared urchin-like CuS microspheres possessed hierarchical/large porous structure and unique electrical structure, which provided a strong ability to capture the Cr(VI) ions in water. Once CuS microspheres were combined with TiO 2 crystals (P25), a surprised high removal efficiency for Cr(VI) was obtained. With optimal molar ratio of CuS:TiO 2 (0.72:1), 4.4 and 1.3 times in Cr(VI) removal rate were obtained with respect to pure TiO 2 and CuS. The high removal efficiency was induced by the distinct synergistic role of strong adsorption and photocatalytic reduction originated from unique electrical structure in CuS/TiO 2 hetero-structure. Moreover, these novel CuS/TiO 2 architectures possess promising application for Cr 6+ effluents remediation in a wide range of pH and with co-existing anions and cations. Synergistic role of efficient adsorption and superior photocatalytic reduction enable these urchin-like hierarchical CuS/TiO 2 architectures exhibit efficiently performance for Cr (VI) removal in wastewater. • Facilely construct urchin-like hierarchical CuS/TiO 2 architectures via precipitation. • Adsorbed Cr(VI) can be quickly reduced to Cr(III) by photo-generated electrons. • Strong synergistic role arises from efficient adsorption and superior reduction. • CuS/TiO 2 composites are promising for efficient Cr (VI) removal in wastewater.