Simple approach towards few layers MoS2 nanorods/nanoflowers and their potential for piezo-photocatalytic rapid degradation activity

In the present scenario, energy demand and environmental remediation are the serious challenges for the worldwide scientific community. Photocatalysis has been extensively studied for its important applications in... [ view full abstract ]

In the present scenario, energy demand and environmental remediation are the serious challenges for the worldwide scientific community. Photocatalysis has been extensively studied for its important applications in environmental purification and green energy. Various strategies (such as doping, co-catalyst loading, and hetero-structure formation) have been designed for the enhancement of degradation activity and for shifting UV light dependency to visible light. Still, the low efficiency and high process cost are the main hurdles for confronting the commercialisation of photocatalysis. Therefore, it is imperative to develop a new green approach to tackling conundrum of environmental remediation at the industrial level. Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) has emerged as a promising semiconductor material for electronics, gas separation, energy conversation and storage due to its unique properties. However, its potential towards the water remediation has not fully explored. Herein, the defect-rich few layers MoS2 nanorods/nanorods were developed by a one-step hydrothermal approach using sodium dithiocarbamate as a sulphur source. The formation of few layers MoS2 nanorods/nanoflowers was concluded using different characterization tools such as XRD, SEM, HR-TEM, Raman, and AFM. The obtained sample exhibited rapid degradation activity towards methylene blue dye and Cr(VI) reduction to Cr(III) by introducing the ultrasonic wave in the dark/light. The rapid degradation rate in the dark is ascribed to the separation of electron and hole pairs in the presence of the electric field, which is formed due to the mechanical stress exerted on the MoS2 by ultrasonication. Almost 100% degradation ratio of both dye and reduction of Cr(VI) to Cr(III) was noticed in very short period of time. Furthermore, the plausible mechanism and various piezo-catalytic results will be discussed in greater detail during the presentation.