Large scale synthesis of uniform CuS nanotubes by a sacrificial templating method and their application as an efficient photocatalyst

Porous CuS nanotubes were synthesized on a large scale by a facile solution reaction route at room temperature using CuSn(OH)6 rods as sacrificial templates. First, rod-like CuSn(OH)6 precursors were derived from an aqueous solution process. Then CuSn(OH)6 rods were converted into CuS nanotubes by adding Na2S aqueous solution at a room temperature. This method has the advantages of the simplicity and low cost. In addition, the photocatalytic activity of porous CuS nanotubes has been tested by the degradation of Rhodamine B (RhB) under UV light irradiation. Compared with dense commercial CuS powders, the as-prepared porous CuS nanotubes exhibit superior photocatalytic activity for the degradation of RhB due to their hollow porous hierarchical structures.

Porous CuS nanotubes were synthesized using CuSn(OH)6 rods as sacrificial templates. The porous CuS nanotubes exhibit superior photocatalytic activity for the degradation of RhB.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► Porous CuS nanotubes were obtained.
► CuSn(OH)6 rods were used as sacrificial templates.
► The porous CuS nanotubes exhibits uperior photocatalytic property.