Near-infrared responsive magnetic photocatalyst based on NaYF 4 :Yb 3+ /Er 3+ @Cu 2 O@MoS 2 @Fe 3 O 4 for the efficient degradation of organic contaminants

In the realm of photocatalysis, effectively utilizing solar energy, especially the near-infrared (NIR) spectrum, presents substantial challenges. To tackle this issue, a novel composite of NaYF 4 :Yb 3+ /Er 3+ @Cu 2 O@MoS 2 @Fe 3 O 4 (denoted as NYE@Cu 2 O@MoS 2 @Fe 3 O 4 ) was ingeniously fabricated and assessed for the photodegradation of organic contaminants. By harnessing the distinct properties of upconversion materials, narrow bandgap semiconductors, and magnetic substances, the NYE@Cu 2 O@MoS 2 @Fe 3 O 4 catalyst possesses a photodegradation rate of 92% for the rhodamine B dye under NIR light radiation, which is superior to NYE@Cu 2 O (50%) and NYE@Cu 2 O@MoS 2 (85%). The enhanced performance in the near-infrared photocatalysis of NYE@Cu 2 O@MoS 2 @Fe 3 O 4 is mainly attributed to the synergistic effect of various components, which promotes an increase in photo-induced carrier generation and facilitates their efficient transfer and energy utilization under NIR irradiation. This study provides a possible route for the near-infrared photocatalytic degradation of pollutants in areas with limited light or even dark conditions.