Controlled synthesis of 3D marigold-like ZnIn2S4/Ti3C2 for rapid and efficient removal of antibiotics

Developing of a rapid and efficient photocatalyst for the removal of antibiotics with high concentration in wastewater remediation is of great importance. 3D marigold-like ZnIn2S4/Ti3C2 was successfully fabricated by coupling 2D Ti3C2 nanosheets with hierarchical 3D ZnIn2S4 using a hydrothermal method. The degradation efficiency of ZnIn2S4/Ti3C2 composite for tetracycline (50 mg/L) and 7-Aminocephalosporanic acid (25 mg/L) within 120 min and 90 min can reach up to 91% and 95%, respectively. The introduction of Ti3C2 modulates the 3D marigold-like architecture of ZnIn2S4, which not only boosted its photon capture performance and adsorption capacity caused by the increased specific surface area, but also effectively separated photo-generated electrons and holes via the well-defined 2D/2D interface between ZnIn2S4 and Ti3C2. The synergistic effect of physical adsorption and photocatalytic degradation contributes to the high degradation efficiency and fast degradation performance. ZnIn2S4/Ti3C2 still exhibits high photocatalytic activity and excellent physicochemical stability after many cycles.