Photocatalytic Decomposition of RhB by Newly Designed and Highly Effective CF@ZnO/CdS Hierarchical Heterostructures

A two-step hydrothermal method was developed to produce CdS nanoparticle–sensitized ZnO nanoneedle heterostructures, which array on copper fiber (CF), and its applications in the field of photocatalysts were also explored. In this novel heterostructure, the CF plays a role in supporting the carriers of CdS nanoparticles–sensitized ZnO nanoneedles. Furthermore, CF is capable of accelerating the exportation of charge carriers. Therefore, CF@ZnO/CdS hierarchical heterostructures present excellent photocatalytic performance under visible light, enabling the decomposition of organic dyes such as RhB within 60 min, with desirable cycling ability. Because of the sustainability and engineering potential of CF in chemistry, it is easy for it to be recycled. This method we developed also conformed to the development of green chemistry without using organic solvents in the entire fabrication process of CF@ZnO/CdS hierarchical heterostructures. This work may pave the way for a useful system to realize efficient charge separation and transmission, which could exert significant influence on the large-scale synthesis of photocatalytic materials with low cost and enhanced performance.