Novel C-dots/titanate nanotubular hybrid materials with enhanced optical and photocatalytic properties

Advanced nanomaterials with enhanced optical and photocatalytic properties for the photodegradation of organic pollutants, in particular pharmaceuticals personal care products (PPCPs), were successfully prepared by a swift one-pot synthesis. Nanostructured materials synthesized through an integrated hydrothermal procedure which generates titanate nanotubes (TNTs) different carbon dots (C-dots) contents, from amorphous titanium oxide-based source cork industry wastewaters (CIWW) as source. Their structural, microstructural, morphological, studied XRD, TEM, XPS, UV-Vis diffuse reflectance photoluminescence spectroscopies. As aimed, hybrid C-dots/TNT extend their light absorption towards red, comparison to pristine TNT, prompting them more efficient use photocatalysis widening TNT energy uptake range. The decrease bandgap increasing sample’s C-dots content seems be originated intermediate states formed within TNTs’ forbidden band resulting Ti−O−C bonds established between TNTs that form tails states. as-synthesized samples tested caffeine pollutant model PPCPs. Rewarding results obtained, showing significant ability toward degradation TNTs. Photocatalysis assays presence scavengers and/or absence oxygen also performed aiming characterize most reactive species during semiconductor photo-activation process thus assessing possible pathways underpinning activity nanomaterials.