ZnO shell on mesoporous silica by atomic layer deposition: Removal of organic dye in water by an adsorbent and its photocatalytic regeneration

- ZnO/SiO2 shell/core structure was prepared by atomic layer deposition.
- Due to unique property of ZnO shell, ZnO/SiO2 shows superior adsorption capacity.
- ZnO/SiO2 adsorbent can be reused by its 'self-regenerating process' with UV exposure.
- ZnO/SiO2 particles can be easily separated from water and recycled.