An efficient strategy for synthesis of CuS 3D yarn ball for wastewater treatment and Photoelectrocatalytic water splitting

Copper Sulfide (CuS) photocatalysts featuring a distinctive yarn ball structure have been successfully synthesized via sulfurization of copper oxide (CuO) urchin seed crystals. The proposed structural and morphological attributes have been confirmed through X-ray Diffraction (XRD), X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), and Scanning Electron Microscopy/Transmission Electron Microscopy (SEM/TEM) analyses. Notably, these CuS yarn ball structures exhibit significantly improved photo-electrocatalytic (PEC) performance, as evidenced by their exceptional capacity to achieve complete degradation of Rhodamine B (RhB) dye and Tetracycline (TC) antibiotic within 50 min and 120 min, respectively, under visible light exposure conditions, in the presence of H 2 O 2 . Active hydroxyl radicals were formed, as evidenced by scavenger experiments. These hydroxyl radicals are primarily responsible for enhanced photocatalytic activity. This finding highlights the importance of these structures in providing a large number of active sites for catalytic activity. Furthermore, the PEC characterization of the CuS photocathode highlights its suitability for PEC water splitting, attributed to its favorable conduction and valence band positions. A potential mechanism for CuS photocatalyst is proposed, shedding light on the underlying factors that drive their superior performance. These findings underscore the promising prospects of CuS yarn ball structures in advanced photocatalysis and sustainable energy conversion. • One-step conversion from CuO to CuS simplifies the synthesis process. • Enhanced efficiency, improved light absorption, reduced charge recombination, and increased surface area. • Excellent photodegradation activity for Rhodamine B dye and Tetracycline antibiotic in the presence of H 2 O 2 . • Investigation of CuS as a potential catalyst for PEC water splitting.