Lattice Defects and Electronic Modulation of Flower-Like Zn3In2S6 Promote Photocatalytic Degradation of Multiple Antibiotics

Abstract

Photocatalysis is an effective technique to remove antibiotic residues from aquatic environments. Typical metal sulfides like Zn₃In₂S₆ have been applied to a wide range of photocatalytic applications. However, there are currently no readily accessible methods to increase its antibiotic-degrading activity. Here, a facile hydrothermal approach is developed for the preparation of flower-like Zn₃In₂S₆ with tunable sulfur lattice defects. Photogenerated carriers can be separated and transferred more easily when there is an adequate amount of lattice defects. Moreover, lattice defect-induced electronic modulation enhances light utilization and adsorption properties. The modified Zn₃In₂S₆ demonstrates outstanding photocatalytic degradation activity for levofloxacin, ofloxacin, and tetracycline. This work sheds light on exploring metal sulfides with sulfur lattice defects for enhancing photocatalytic activity.

Keywords: Zn3In2S6; antibiotic; lattice defects; photocatalysis.