Enhanced inactivation of Microcystis aeruginosa by heterogeneous interfacial Ag₂MoO₄/TACN under visible light

A novel photocatalytic material Ag2MoO4/TACN was synthesized, and the heterogeneous interfacial effect between them enhanced its photocatalytic algae removal performance. Meanwhile, the crystal phase change of Ag2MoO4 was also found during the recombination process, which cramped the band gap width from 3.35 to 3.06 eV. The improved algal removal efficiency of the synthesized photocatalyst was clearly demonstrated when nearly 100 % of Microcystis aeruginosa got removed under 3 h illumination. Moreover, better inactivation effect was observed under alkaline and neutral conditions. From the results, possible mechanisms for the photocatalytic activities were proposed. ROS (center dot OH, and center dot O-2(-)), h(+) and Ag+ produced by Ag2MoO4/TACN were the main substances causing algae inactivation, as they destroy the normal functions of cell membrane and consequently lead to the leakage of electrolytes as well as algal organic matter. In addition, under the continuous attack of ROS and Ag+, the photosynthetic and metabolic activities of algal cells were hindered, while the PB content, SOD and CAT activities were also continuously reduced, leading to the mortality of algal cells. Finally, recycling experiments confirmed the recyclability and reusability of Ag2MoO4/TACN, further illustrating its potential as a promising photocatalyst for practical applications.