Efficient photoelectrochemical real textile wastewater detoxification using photoanodes of C3N4-BiVO4

Abstract

Photoelectrochemical systems utilizing solar energy have garnered significant attention for their sustainability in remediating contaminated water. This study focuses on advancing photoanode development through the utilization of carbon nitrides (C₃N₄) and bismuth vanadate (BiVO₄), two promising semiconductor materials renowned for their efficient electron-hole pair separation leading to enhanced photocatalytic activity. Four distinct materials were synthesized and compared: BiVO₄ over C₃N₄, C₃N₄ over BiVO₄, and pristine BiVO₄ and C₃N₄. Upon electrochemical analysis, the C₃N₄-BiVO₄ heterostructure exhibited the highest photoelectrocatalytic charge transfer constant, mobility, and lifetime of charge carriers. Capitalizing on these exceptional properties, the composite was applied to remove organic matter real effluent from the textile industry. The photoelectrodegradation of the effluent demonstrated substantial removal of Total Organic Carbon (TOC) and the generation of low toxicity degradation products, accompanied by low energy consumption. The compelling results underscore the high potential of the synthesized C₃N₄-BiVO₄ heterostructure for industrial applications, particularly in addressing environmental challenges associated with textile industry effluents.

Keywords: Carbon nitride; Heterostructures; Photoelectrocatalysis; Textile effluent.