Zn-doping mediated formation of oxygen vacancies in SnO2 with unique electronic structure for efficient and stable photocatalytic toluene degradation

To optimize the electronic structure of photocatalyst, a facile one-step approach is developed for simultaneous realization Zn-doping and surface oxygen vacancies (SOVs) formation on SnO 2 . The Zn-doped with abundant SOVs exhibits efficient stable performance photocatalytic degradation toluene under both low high relative humidity. Experimental theoretical calculations results show that synergistic effects can considerably boost charge transfer separation efficiency. Utilizing in situ DRIFTS methods, it revealed benzene ring opened at benzoic acid selectively benzaldehyde surface. This implies photocatalysts shorten pathway degradation, toxic intermediates be significantly inhibited. work could provide promising sustainable route safe removal aromatic VOCs technology. reactants activation, inhibit formation.