Preparation of Zn2GeO4 nanosheets with MIL-125(Ti) hybrid photocatalyst for improved photodegradation of organic pollutants

Zn₂GeO₄ nanosheets/MIL-125(Ti) composites were successfully prepared via a facile two-step solvothermal route, and the phase structures were studied in detail. The as-obtained Zn₂GeO₄ nanosheets/MIL-125(Ti) composites exhibited remarkable photocatalytic activity and excellent cycle stability for the degradation of RhB 6G dye molecules under a 300 W Xenon lamp light emitting UV and visible radiation over 300−700 nm. It was found that 100 mL of 10 mg L⁻¹ RhB 6G can be completely degraded over 50 mg of Zn₂GeO₄ nanosheets/MIL-125(Ti) photocatalyst within 90 min, and the degradation efficiency keep invariable after 4 cycles. MIL-125(Ti) endows the photocatalysts enhanced UV–vis light adsorption capability, while the Zn₂GeO₄ nanosheet with relatively high surface area can effectively improve the charge transfer process of generated holes and pairs. Finally, the potential photocatalytic mechanism of photocatalysis of RhB 6G involved in the photoactive electrons and holes transfer was further discussed.