Hierarchical TiO2/CdS “spindle-like” composite with high photodegradation and antibacterial capability under visible light irradiation

► Hierarchical “spindle-like” TiO2/CdS composite was prepared through hydrothermal and hot-injection combined methods. ► Optimal mass ratio of Ti/Cd was determined to be 2. ► Strong adsorption on set in the visible light area. ► 92% organic dye was degraded under visible light irradiation within 60 min. ► 99.9% bacterial inactivation was achieved under visible light irradiation within 10 min.