Magnetically Recyclable MoS2/Fe3O4 Hybrid Composite as Visible Light Responsive Photocatalyst with Enhanced Photocatalytic Performance

Photocatalysis is one of the most promising technologies in wastewater treatment. However, the inactivity to visible light and the inconvenience to recycle severely limit its practical application. In this work, via a facile hydrothermal method, Fe3O4 NPs were integrated onto the surfaces of 3D ball-flower-like MoS2 microspheres as efficiently visible light responsive and magnetically recyclable photocatalysts. Experimental results indicate that, an optimal loading amount (20 wt %) of Fe3O4 NPs can not only effectively enhance the photocatalytic ability of the MoS2/Fe3O4 (MF) hybrid composite with approximately 2 times better than pure MoS2, but also make it conveniently recycle from water by an external magnetic field. The photoelectrochemical studies also reveal that the incorporation of Fe3O4 NPs can effectively enhance the charge transfer rate and accelerate separation of photoinduced charge carriers. The surface catalytic mechanism of MF hybrid composite was also explored through XPS spectra. With both the excellent photocatalytic performance and magnetical recyclability, the 20 wt %-MF hybrid composite is considered to be a promising and competitive photocatalyst for wastewater treatment utilizing solar energy.