Constructing Z-scheme 1D/2D heterojunction of ZnInS nanosheets decorated WO nanorods to enhance Cr(VI) photocatalytic reduction and rhodamine B degradation.

Photocatalysis has been vastly employed as a feasible and efficient strategy for the removal of environmental pollutants. In this study, a well-designed core-shell heterojunction of WO decorated with ZnInS nanosheets were fabricated under mild in-situ conditions, and fabricated processes were systematically investigated with different fabrication durations. The coupling of WO and ZnInS (ZIS) resulted in a Z-scheme mechanism for charge carrier transfer, holding the respective redox capacity. The as-prepared 1D/2D WO@ZIS heterostructure displayed the highest removal efficiency within 30 min for 25 mg L Cr(VI), 89.3 and 29.7 times higher than pure WO and ZnInS. 1D/2D WO@ZIS remained excellently stable after 5 cycling experiments. Moreover, 40 mg L RhB could be degraded within 50 min. The broad and short photogenerated electron transportation path is guaranteed by the 1D/2D and Z-scheme charge separation mechanism. It efficiently prevented photo-generated charge carriers from recombination, resulting in a longer carrier lifespan and better photocurrent responses than that of pure ones. This photocatalytic system showed promising results and also provides a framework for an efficient system for photocatalysis with potential for environmental application.