Synthesis and photocatalytic activity of zinc-doped copper sulfide with porous nanotubes structures

Zinc-doped copper sulfide (Zn-doped CuS) particles were synthesized by a hydrothermal method in EG (EG) solutions of different concentrations. The results showed that the concentration of EG could regulate the structural morphology of Zn-doped CuS, and the Zn-doped CuS formed in pure EG had a porous nanotubular structure, and its photocatalytic degradation efficiency of methylene blue was as high as 96 % under visible light with good stability. SEM and TEM imaging confirmed that the diameter of the Zn-doped CuS with porous nanotubular structure was 100 nm, and the wall thickness was 30 nm. This study presents a strategy to enhance the photocatalytic activity and performance of CuS for environmental applications through EG concentration and zinc doping.