V-Ti ₃ C ₂ nanozyme with peroxidase-like activity for dye removal and the colorimetric detection of Fe ³⁺

In this study, V-doped Ti₃C₂ (V-Ti₃C₂) was synthesized <i>via</i> a simple one-step hydrothermal method. Results demonstrated that the surface of the lamellar V-Ti₃C₂ structure, abundant in hydrophilic functional groups and reactive active sites, exhibited outstanding peroxidase-like activity with a <i>V</i>_max 12.8 times higher than that of horseradish peroxidase (HRP). Furthermore, V-Ti₃C₂ with rich functional groups was employed to efficiently adsorb organic dyes in an aqueous environment. Subsequently, we evaluated its ability for the degradation of dyes and selective detection of ferric ions in wastewater using its peroxidase-like activity. The combination of the two processes leverages the different characteristics of V-Ti₃C₂, providing a versatile and efficient solution to the challenges posed by water pollution. Notably, the excellent adsorption characteristics and catalytic properties of V-Ti₃C₂ highlight the capability of nanozymes for extensive applications in addressing water pollution challenges.