Ultrathin WS2 nanobowls-based hybrid aerogels for selective trapping of precious metals from electronic wastes and elimination of organic dyes

Recycling precious metals from electronic wastes, minerals, waste catalysts, industrial wastewater and other wastes are of great significance to the construction of a sustainable industry framework, but it is still challenging. Herein, we for the first time proposed the design and preparation of two three-dimensional (3D) WS2 nanobowls hybrid aerogels (GA@WS2 Nbs and WS2 Nbs/GA) for the recovery of precious metal ions and highly efficient removal of organic dyes. The construction of tungsten disulfide nanobowls (WS2 Nbs) was optimized in morphology in consideration of the precursor concentration and reaction time. The prepared WS2 Nbs/GA was shown to rapidly capture Au(III) from printed wiring board (PWB) containing various interferents. The calculated capture capability of 1265.8 mg g−1 for Au(III) was obtained. It surprisingly involved that the deposition of nano gold (Au0) on the WS2 Nbs/GA was due to not only the selective chemistry of WS2 Nbs/GA but also its reduction interaction. Furthermore, the WS2 Nbs/GA exhibited remarkable efficiencies (99 %) in the removal of methylene blue. The unique properties gave the hybrid aerogels gifted ability in capturing Au(III) from electronic wastes and minerals. It provided a blueprint for the next generation green platform for precious metals and water treatment.