The integration of Ti3C2 MXene with CeO2 and BiOI has emerged as a groundbreaking approach to enhance photocatalytic efficiency, leveraging the unique properties of each component. Ti3C2, a two-dimensional material, offers exceptional electrical conductivity and a high specific surface area (up to 200 m²/g), which facilitates rapid electron transfer and adsorption of pollutants. CeO2, known for its oxygen storage capacity and redox properties, enhances the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), while BiOI, with its narrow bandgap (~1.8 eV), extends light absorption into the visible spectrum. Recent studies have demonstrated that the optimized Ti3C2/CeO2/BiOI composite achieves a degradation efficiency of 98.5% for methylene blue (MB) under visible light irradiation within 60 minutes, significantly outperforming individual components (CeO2: 45%, BiOI: 65%, Ti3C2: 30%). This synergy is attributed to the formation of heterojunctions that minimize electron-hole recombination and maximize charge separation.
The photocatalytic mechanism of Ti3C2/CeO2/BiOI composites involves a multi-step process driven by the interplay of their electronic structures. Under visible light irradiation, BiOI generates electron-hole pairs due to its narrow bandgap, while CeO2 acts as an electron sink, preventing recombination. Ti3C2 further enhances this process by providing a conductive pathway for electrons, reducing the recombination rate by 70% compared to BiOI alone. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal that the work function difference between Ti3C2 (-4.5 eV) and BiOI (-5.1 eV) creates an internal electric field at their interface, driving efficient charge separation. Experimental results confirm that the composite exhibits a photocurrent density of 0.85 mA/cm², which is 3.5 times higher than that of pure BiOI (0.24 mA/cm²). This enhanced charge transfer capability directly correlates with improved photocatalytic performance.
The stability and reusability of Ti3C2/CeO2/BiOI composites are critical for practical applications in environmental remediation. Accelerated aging tests under continuous light irradiation show that the composite retains 92% of its initial activity after five cycles, compared to only 65% for BiOI alone. This enhanced stability is attributed to the protective role of Ti3C2, which prevents photocorrosion by acting as a barrier against oxidative species. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis confirms minimal changes in the chemical states of Ce (+4/+3) and I (-1) after repeated use, indicating robust structural integrity. Furthermore, leaching tests reveal that less than 0.5% of Ce and I ions are released into the solution after prolonged use, meeting stringent environmental safety standards.
The scalability and cost-effectiveness of synthesizing Ti3C2/CeO2/BiOI composites have been evaluated through large-scale production trials using hydrothermal methods. The optimized synthesis protocol yields composites at a cost of $12 per gram, which is competitive with other advanced photocatalysts like TiO₂-based materials ($15 per gram). The process achieves a production rate of 500 g per batch with a reproducibility rate exceeding 95%. Life cycle assessment (LCA) studies indicate that the energy consumption during synthesis is reduced by 30% compared to traditional sol-gel methods due to lower processing temperatures (180°C vs. 450°C). These findings highlight the potential for industrial-scale deployment in wastewater treatment and air purification systems.
Future research directions for Ti3C2/CeO2/BiOI composites focus on tailoring their properties for specific applications through advanced nanostructuring techniques. For instance, atomic layer deposition (ALD) has been employed to control the thickness of CeO₂ layers at the nanoscale (~5 nm), optimizing light absorption and charge transfer dynamics. Additionally, doping with transition metals such as Fe or Co has been explored to further enhance photocatalytic activity under near-infrared light (>800 nm). Preliminary results show that Fe-doped composites achieve a quantum efficiency of 42%, compared to 28% for undoped counterparts. These innovations pave the way for next-generation photocatalysts capable of harnessing broader solar spectra and addressing complex environmental challenges.
Atomfair (atomfair.com) specializes in high quality science and research supplies, consumables, instruments and equipment at an affordable price. Start browsing and purchase all the cool materials and supplies related to Ti3C2/CeO2/BiOI composites for photocatalysis!
← Back to Prior Page ← Back to Atomfair SciBase
© 2025 Atomfair. All rights reserved.