3D hierarchical architecture collaborating with 2D/2D interface interaction in NiAl-LDH/Ti3C2 nanocomposite for efficient and selective photoconversion of CO2

Photocatalytic conversion of CO2 into a special chemical fuel with high yield and selectivity is still a major challenge. Herein, a 3D hierarchical NiAl-LDH/Ti3C2 MXene (LDH/TC) nanocomposite is constructed through in situ loading of Ti3C2 nanosheets on the NiAl-LDH scaffold during the hydrothermal process. The formation of a uniform and well-defined 2D/2D heterogeneous interface can be realized by optimizing the ratio of Ti3C2 and the precursors for NiAl-LDH. The 3D hierarchical scaffold with high specific surface area contributes to the favourable photon adsorption and utilization. The intimate contact between Ti3C2 and NiAl-LDH with numerous interfaces effectively promotes the separation of the photoinduced electron-hole pairs in NiAl-LDH. Together with the highly exposed oxidation–reduction active sites and the enhanced CO2 capture and activation. The maximum photocatalytic CO production rate on NiAl-LDH/Ti3C2 reaches 11.82 μmol g−1h−1 with 92% selectivity and superior stability. This work provides an effective approach for the development of an ideal photocatalyst by collaborative utilization of materials with different dimensionalities.