Efficient tetracycline degradation using arbon quantum dot-modified TiO 2 @LaFeO 3 hollow core-shell photocatalysts

Abstract Efficient harnessing of solar energy presents a significant challenge in environmental cleanup efforts. This study developed a highly effective carbon quantum dots-modified hollow core-shell CQDs@TiO₂@LaFeO₃ (CDs-TLFO) heterojunction photocatalyst. Structural analysis confirmed that nanosheets were loaded with CQDs, forming a TLFO structure with close interconnections and a hollow core-shell design. Photocatalytic experiments revealed that CDs-TLFO degraded tetracycline hydrochloride (TC) 2.02 times faster than TLFO alone, and significantly outperformed h-TiO₂ and LaFeO₃ (11.28 and 2.78 times, respectively). This enhancement is attributed to CQDs acting as electron acceptors with upconversion properties, enhancing the separation of e–-h⁺ pairs and boosting visible light absorption. Integration of CQDs onto the TLFO surface created numerous active sites and enhanced visible light absorption. LC-MS analysis identified intermediates and proposed potential TC degradation pathways, shedding light on the photocatalytic mechanism. This research introduces promising avenues for environmental cleanup and offers a straightforward, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly method for producing CDs-TLFO heterojunction materials with superior photocatalytic capabilities.