Shining black nanoscopic ternary zincospiroffite: A panchromatic light harvester for depollution

Nanostructured zincospiroffite (Zn2Te3O8), a promising photocatalyst for water purification and bacterial inhibition is reported for the first time. Sparkling black Zn2Te3O8 nanocrystals have been synthesized via template-free solvothermal method with minimum precursors, zinc acetate and tellurium powder, in a polymeric medium of beta-aminoethylamine. Optical and structural characterizations prove the crystalline nature and panchromatic light harvesting behavior of zincospiroffite. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Raman analysis and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy provide evidence for the anion deficiency in the crystals. A 3D crystal structure derived from XRD data confirms the bonding states. Panchromatic light harvesting behavior and reactive oxygen species generation from this unexplored semiconductor help visible to near IR driven photocatalysis and unprecedently high antibacterial activity. [Display omitted] •Highly crystalline Zn2Te3O8 nanomaterial is synthesized via green solvothermal approach•X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Raman analysis and electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy confirms anion deficiency•Photocatalytic decontamination of aqueous cationic pollutant stimulated by anion deficiency and panchromatic light absorption•Unprecedently high antibacterial activity against Escherichia Coli than standard tetracycline