Hollow ZnO microspheres functionalized with highly dispersed Pt nanoparticles for efficient photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline

Constructing advanced photocatalysts for tetracycline (TC) degradation in aquatic environments is a promising and green strategy to mitigate antibiotic resistance and ecological risks. In this work, the hollow structured ZnO microspheres functionalized with Pt nanoparticles were rationally designed and synthesized through a sacrificial template approach and photodeposition process. The hollow structures strengthened light trapping via multi-scattering in cavity as well as shortened charge migration pathway due to the thinner shell, which facilitated more electron (e − ) and hole (h + ) migration to catalyst surface. Furthermore, the Pt nanoparticles anchored on ZnO surfaces induced localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) effect, broadening light absorption in visible light range. Concurrently, the formation of heterojunction between Pt and ZnO significantly suppressed the recombination of e − /h + . Thus, the optimal Pt/ZnO catalyst achieved 90.29 % TC degradation within 100 min, exhibiting a reaction rate constant of 0.02347 min −1 , which was 2.62-fold higher than that of single ZnO. Moreover, the degradation efficiency retained 87.84 % after five successive recycles, demonstrating exceptional durability and stability. This work offers a facile and scalable strategy for fabricating high performance photocatalysts for organic compounds degradation in pollution water with a bright application prospect.