Rational design of Z-scheme configured polymeric carbon nitride-decorated ZnWO4 nanofibers for enhanced visible-light-driven photodegradation of antibiotics

In this study, a Z-scheme heterostructure was meticulously engineered between zinc tungstate (ZnWO4) nanofibers and polymeric carbon nitride (PCN) nanosheets to augment the photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline (TC) under visible light irradiation. A cohesively integrated PCN/ZnWO4 photocatalyst structure was synthesized through an in-situ gas-solid reaction. The quantity and spatial distribution of PCN nanosheets were modulated by fine-tuning the gas precursor and reaction parameters. Relative to pristine ZnWO4 nanofibers and PCN photocatalysts, the distinct three-dimensional PCN/ZnWO4 heterostructure manifests a notable enhancement in photocatalytic performance, attributed to its plethora of active sites and a Z-scheme configuration that bolsters charge separation efficiency, achieving a tetracycline degradation rate of 95.4% upon exposure to simulated sunlight for 160 minutes. The employment of gas-solid reaction as a design paradigm pioneers a fresh paradigm in the strategic assembly of Z-scheme heterostructured photocatalysts, thereby illuminating a promising pathway for advancements in environmental remediation technologies. [Display omitted]