Bi-functional Cu-TiO2/CuO photocatalyst for large-scale synergistic treatment of waste sewage containing organics and heavy metal ions

Numerous photocatalysts have been prepared for the photocatalysis of either organic pollutant degradation or Cr(VI) reduction. However, most inorganic and pollutants usually co-exist in industrial sewage. Simultaneous elimination mixed remains highly challenging. Herein, we report bi-functional Cu-TiO2/CuO by in-situ doping heterostructure engineering strategies large-scale enhanced synergistic photocatalytic transitional metallic ions from waste sewage one shot. Specifically, this photocatalyst displays about 2.35 3.84 times higher Rhodamine B (RhB) reduction rates solution with co-existing RhB than that single solution, respectively. A boosted synergetic effect between dye molecule is revealed. The also extraordinary activity stability pollutants. Moreover, theoretical calculations demonstrate Cu give rise to narrowed bandgap light harvesting, increased density states high charge carrier density, delocalized electron fast photoinduced separation, profitable transfer TiO2 CuO, thus bringing efficient photocatalysis. concept reported study opens a new avenue construct solar-to-fuel conversion water treatment river purification.