Ta₃N₅/CdS Core–Shell S-scheme Heterojunction Nanofibers for Efficient Photocatalytic Removal of Antibiotic Tetracycline and Cr(VI): Performance and Mechanism Insights

Abstract

Ta₃N₅/CdS core–shell S-scheme heterojunction nanofibers are fabricated by in situ growing CdS nanodots on Ta₃N₅ nanofibers via a simple wet-chemical method. These Ta₃N₅/CdS nanofibers not only affords superior photocatalytic tetracycline degradation and mineralization performance, but also cause an efficient photocatalytic Cr(VI) reduction performance. The creation of favorable core–shell fiber-shaped S-scheme hetero-structure with tightly contacted interface and the maximum interface contact area promises the effective photo-carrier disintegration and the optimal photo-redox capacity synchronously, thus leading to the preeminent photo-redox ability.  Some critical environmental factors on the photo-behavior of Ta₃N₅/CdS are also evaluated in view of the complexity of the authentic aquatic environment. The degradation products of tetracycline were confirmed by HPLC–MS analyses. Furthermore, the effective decline in eco-toxicity of TC intermediates is confirmed by QSAR calculation. This work provides cutting-edge guidelines for the design of high-performance Ta₃N₅-based S-scheme heterojunction nanofibers for environment restoration.

Graphical abstract

Funding

National Natural Science Foundation of China(51708504)