Carbon nanodots-based nanocomposites with enhanced photocatalytic performance and photothermal effects

Abstract

Carbon nanomaterials with variable bandgaps exhibit wide spectral absorption, and photoluminescent nanodots have attracted much interest. In this work, carbon nanodots (CNDs) are grafted onto the surface of TiO2 nanotubes to enhance the photocatalytic properties. The CNDs increase light absorption, trap and shuttle photo-generated electrons, and enhance the pollutant adsorptivity. In addition, the synergistic photothermal effect of the CNDs-based nanocomposite facilitates photocatalysis. The CNDs-based nanocomposites with improved photothermal performance and efficient photocatalytic characteristics have large potential in environment and energy applications.