Hydrothermal synthesis and photocatalytic performance of 2D ZnO nanostructures: insights into morphology, defects, and precursor variations
摘要
This study investigates the complex interplay among preparation methods, precursor types and concentrations, and structural defects in determining the morphology, texture, and photocatalytic performance of two-dimensional (2D) ZnO nanomaterials. By synthesizing ZnO coral-like nanoplates and ultrathin nanoplates through a straightforward, surfactant-free hydrothermal method, the research highlights the influence of precursor modifications on morphologic evolution and photocatalytic efficiency. The findings demonstrate that porous ZnO coral-like nanoplates exhibit superior photocatalytic activity, achieving a 99% methylene blue degradation rate under sunlight, compared to 95% for ultrathin ZnO nanoplates after heat treatment at 600 °C. The enhanced performance of the ZnO coral-like nanoplates is attributed to their high crystallinity and porous structure, developed through the thermal decomposition of hydrozincite Zn5(CO3)2(OH)6. This porous morphology, characterized by a high density of defects and an increased surface area, enhances photostability and accelerates the decomposition of organic pollutants in water under natural sunlight. The study provides valuable insights into optimizing 2D ZnO nanostructures for environmental remediation applications and identifies avenues for future research on functional nanomaterials.