ZnO:ZnWO4 heterostructure with enhanced photocatalytic activity for pollutant degradation in liquid and gas phases

Here we report, for the first time, a versatile ZnO:ZnWO4 heterostructure active for photocatalytic degradation of pollutants in liquid and gaseous media, prepared using a simple hydrothermal method driven by the differences in chemical solubility of the components. This heterostructured material was effective in the oxidation of methylene blue dye, caffeine, and amiloride in aqueous solution, and ethylene gas. High photocatalytic performance was attributed to the spontaneous formation of heterojunctions between ZnO and ZnWO4 during the synthesis step, increasing electron/hole pair lifetimes. Recycling experiments revealed that the heterostructure was stable over time, indicating the commercial potential of this material.