Uncovering the mechanism of novel AgInS2 nanosheets/TiO2 nanobelts composites for photocatalytic remediation of combined pollution

In this work, a novel AgInS2 nanosheets/TiO2 nanobelts photocatalyst was prepared by a facile hydrothermal method. The AgInS2/TiO2 with the optimal ration showed excellent photocatalytic performance in simultaneous Escherichia coli (E. coli) disinfection and Cr(VI) reduction or E. coli disinfection and bisphenol A (BPA) degradation. The superior photocatalytic effect were possibly attributed to formation of heterojunction between AgInS2 nanosheets and TiO2 nanobelts, which could increase the absorption of visible light, facilitate the separation of photo-induced carrier and held the redox of photo-generated e– and h+. The production of reactive species during the disinfection process was also investigated by employing chemical scavengers, electron spin resonance, and spectroscopy technique, revealing the paramount role of h+ and O2•–. This study paves a new way to rationally design the novel TiO2 nanobelts or AgInS2 nanosheets based photocatalysts for combined pollution remediation in water environment.