A novel biomolecule-assisted synthesis of CuS-anchored 3DOM-TiO2 for stable and enhanced photocatalysis activity

Herein, a series of CuS particles anchored three-dimensional ordered macroporous TiO 2 (CuS/3DOM-TiO 2 ) composites were fabricated by a biocompatible and environmental-friendly biomolecule-assisted route. For the first time in the macroporous 3DOM-TiO 2 , L-cysteine acted as multiple roles including sulfur source and chelating agent for anchoring of CuS particles. During the regulation by Cu/Ti molar ratios from 0.3 to 2, the average size of CuS particle which anchored on inner surface of 3DOM-TiO 2 was well-controlled from about 50 to 20 nm. The photocatalytic activities were investigated by visible-light degradation of methylene blue (MB). The highest activity of CuS/3DOM-TiO 2 was emerged when Cu/Ti equaled to 1. This optimized CuS/3DOM-TiO 2 -1 reached 99% in 180 min, which was 60% higher than that of pure TiO 2 . After four cycles, the photocatalytic activity of CuS/3DOM-TiO 2 retains more than 80% of its original performance. L-cysteine highly promoted the adhesion between CuS and TiO 2 which provided good cycling ability.