Preparation of Ti3C2Tx quantum dots/activated semi-coke composite and its electrocatalytic performance

Developing advanced materials for the removal of organic pollutants is an urgent need. Ti3C2Tx quantum dots (Ti3C2Tx QDs) offers good conductivity and hydrophilic properties. They have attracted increasing attention in electrocatalysis. However, restacking nano-sheets can impede their electro-chemical performance. Thus, we report here a simple preparation approach via the introduction of potential electrode material-activated semicoke (ASC) into Ti3C2Tx QDs using brief sonication. The as-fabricated Ti3C2Tx QDs/ASC composite significantly improves the electro-chemical activity in contrast to pure ASC. The Ti3C2Tx QDs/ASC composite is coated on a stainless-steel net and exhibits a higher degradation rate of rhodamine B (RhB) versus ASC electrodes and ASC adsorption. This excellent electro-catalytic performance can be attributed to the high conductivity of Ti3C2Tx QDs, with a unique pore structure, abundant functional groups, and specific area of ASC. This structure has high potential as an anode and can remove organic pollutants from water.

Automated summary

The two-dimensional Ti3C2Tx QDs/ASC composite exhibits excellent electro-catalytic performance and has the potential to serve as an efficient anode material for the removal of organic pollutants from water.