Highly efficient SnS-decorated Bi2O3 nanosheets for simultaneous electrochemical detection and removal of Cd(II) and Pb(II)

The sensitive detection and efficient removal of heavy metal ions with high toxicity and mobility are of great importance for the environmental monitoring and control. Here, a novel SnS-decorated Bi2O3 nanosheets heterostructure was synthesized via a facile hydro/solvothermal strategy. The as-prepared SnS-Bi2O3 nanocomposites presented impressive merits of the high surface area, mesoporous channels and fast electron transfer for the electrochemical reactions. And the synergistic interaction between SnS and Bi2O3 significantly improved the “deposition-stripping” process involving electron transfer, mass diffusion and phase transition. With the unique characteristics, the SnS-Bi2O3 nanocomposites exhibited improved sensitivity and robust stability on the electrochemical detection of Cd(II) and Pb(II) with low LODs of 1.50 nM and 1.40 nM, respectively, and were successfully applied on the detection of Cd(II) and Pb(II) in tap water and lake water samples. Furthermore, the electrochemical removal performance towards Cd(II) and Pb(II) was achieved as well. These SnS-Bi2O3 nanocomposites could serve as an efficient platform on the detection and removal of heavy metal ions in environmental electrochemistry. [Display omitted] •A novel SnS-decorated Bi2O3 nanosheets heterostructure was synthesized in a facile way.•SnS-Bi2O3 nanocomposites exhibited improved electrochemical performance towards Cd(II) and Pb(II) in tap and lake water.•The efficient electrochemical removal capability towards Cd(II) and Pb(II) was realized.