Potential application of MoS2 nanoflowers as photocatalysts in cement: Strength, hydration, and dye degradation properties

A new method using MoS2 nanoflowers to prepare cement paste for degradable dyes is proposed. In this study, MoS2 nanoflowers were synthesized and applied to improve the hydration rate and dye degradation performance of cement. The effects of MoS2 on the hydration, strength, microstructure, hydration products, and dye degradation performance of the cement system were systematically studied. The main conclusions of this study are as follows: (1) MoS2 nanoflowers (0.5 wt% and 1 wt%) show a nucleation effect and can promote early cement hydration. The promotion effect of MoS2 in the later stage of hydration is not as remarkable as in the early stage; (2) Although MoS2 does not change the type of cement hydration products, it slightly affects the amounts produced. After adding MoS2, the cumulative pore volume is slightly reduced; (3) Compared to a plain specimen, the MoS2-blended cement specimen shows a better degradation effect on rhodamine 6G. The presence of MoS2 in the cement paste promotes the photobleaching effect for rhodamine 6G degradation.