Low temperature synthesis of ZrS2 nanoflakes and their catalytic activity

ZrS2 nanoflakes with a narrow size distribution (10-30 nm) were successfully prepared via a direct gaseous reaction between ZrCl4 and S at a relatively low temperature (800 degrees C). They exhibited unique optical properties and showed excellent performance in photocatalytic degradation of 4-nitrophenol, one of the most-difficult-to-remove pollutants.