SnSe@SnO2 core–shell nanocomposite for synchronous photothermal–photocatalytic production of clean water

Abstract

Water shortage and pollution are recognized as one of the most pressing global challenges. Solar power-based water treatment combining photodegradation with photothermal evaporation has showed particular promise. However, the moderate photothermal and photocatalytic capability of the reported materials for combined water treatment has largely restrained the treatment efficiency. Herein, instead of integrating two functional components, we develop SnSe nanoparticles into a novel photothermal–photocatalytic dual-functional core–shell composite by one-step simple surface oxidation. The resultant SnSe@SnO₂ demonstrates excellent properties for synchronous pollutant degradation and water evaporation upon solar irradiation of one sun (0.1 W cm⁻²). A water evaporation rate of ∼1.19 kg m⁻² h⁻¹ with a methyl orange degradation rate of ∼0.093 min⁻¹ are achieved. This work provides a convenient and novel strategy to fabricate dual-functional composites from a single component for energy conversion, catalysis, and photothermal applications.