Key points are not available for this paper at this time.
Nanocomposites have gained significant attention for various applications, such as sensing, catalysis, and energy. While graphene–silver and other similar combinations have been extensively explored, the synthesis of nanocomposites based on antimony and noble metals (such as silver and gold) remains unexplored. In this study, we introduced an approach for preparing silver nanoparticle (AgNP)-decorated antimony trioxide nanocomposites (Sb2O3–Ag) with exceptional catalytic properties. These nanocomposites, synthesized rapidly using antimonene (AM) and Ag+ precursors under microwave-assisted heating, exhibited promising catalytic performance. Characterization techniques, including transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), confirmed the formation of Sb2O3–Ag nanocomposites, showcasing AgNPs dispersed on the surface of large irregular Sb2O3 particles. Evaluation of catalytic activity using p-nitrophenol (PNP) degradation revealed a rapid elimination rate of approximately 91.6% within 2 s. Several experimental parameters, such as the ratios of AM and Ag+ concentrations and the catalyst amount, were optimized to establish the best reaction conditions for PNP degradation. Furthermore, the sustained catalytic activity of Sb2O3–Ag nanocomposites over 1 month underscores their potential for long-term applications. Analysis through electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy suggests the generation of hydroxyl radicals responsible for PNP decomposition, supported by a proposed degradation pathway using electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. This study not only introduces a bimetallic nanomaterial based on Sb and Ag but also provides a sustainable solution for organic pollutant degradation.
Lu et al. (Tue,) studied this question.