Rapid electron transfer via hetero-interface engineering of 2D MOF anchored Ti3C2 MXene nanosheet for enhanced photocatalytic disinfection

Photocatalytic materials are one of the most promising alternatives of antibiotics for wound disinfection, and the bacteria-killing efficacy is restrained by photocatalytic performance. Herein, Ti3C2 MXene-anchored 2D metal-organic frame (MOF) nanosheets were constructed to enhance the photocatalytic performance through interface engineering strategy by in-situ growth of 2D MOF on Ti3C2 nanosheets. On the one hand, the close contact between them decreased the bandgap of 2D MOF, improving the yield of photogenerated electrons. On the other hand, it not only provided a rapid electron transfer channel across the interface but also induced the formation of Schottky junction at the interface. Consequently, the separation efficiency of photo-generated electron-hole pairs was significantly enhanced by rapid transfer and inhibition of electron backflow. Thus, under 660 nm plus 808 nm light, MOF/Ti3C2 killed 99.73 ± 0.12% of Staphylococcus aureus. This work will provide insights for designing photo-responsive materials through in-situ interfacial engineering strategies.