Enhancing NO degradation in visible light through plasma-treated photocatalytic substrates featuring TiO2@g-C3N4 2 @g-C 3 N 4 Z-scheme structure

In this study, a novel approach is introduced involving grafting and dip coating on photocatalytic substrates to create a Z-Scheme structure of TiO2@g-C3N4 2 @g-C 3 N 4 (TC). The synthesized photocatalyst undergoes comprehensive characterization through techniques such as XRD, SEM, XPS, FTIR, Contact Angle Goniometer, and BET analysis. Two configurations, TC coated on PVDF membrane (TC-PVDF) and TC coated on Film (TC-Film), are evaluated for the photodegradation of NOx x under visible light. Compared to the benchmark material TiO2, 2 , TC-PVDF nanoparticles demonstrate outstanding performance, boasting a specific surface area of 60.93 m2/g 2 /g and minimal toxic NO2 2 byproducts, with concentration as low as 3.54 ppb, constituting only 0.46% during NOx x remediation. These nanoparticles exhibit remarkable stability, with less than a 10% decrease in efficiency after 5 cycles of visible light irradiation. Plasma treatment transforms TC-PVDF from superhydrophobic to hydrophilic, with a contact angle reduction from 124.7 degrees to 0 degrees. Notably, TC-PVDF shows substantial efficiency enhancements, reaching 84.04%. This study broadens insights into catalytic bag filters, providing practical implications for their use in NOx x removal. It offers innovative solutions for air purification, addressing environmental challenges and advancing sustainable technologies.