Self-assembled 3D ACF–rGO–TiO2 composite as efficient and recyclable spongy adsorbent for organic dye removal

• Activated carbon fibers templating self-assembly of reduced graphene oxide nanosheets and TiO2 nanoparticles forming three–dimensional macro composite that combines adsorption capacity with photocatalytic activity.
• Three–dimensional activated carbon fibers reduced graphene oxide–TiO2 composite can be used as a recyclable spongy adsorbent for water purification.

Reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanosheets (NSs) decorated with TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) were bound to activated carbon fibers (ACF) forming three-dimensional (3D) macroscopic composites with nanoscale building blocks by a one-pot hydrothermal self-assembly method. The integration of adsorption capacity enhanced by rGO NSs and photocatalytic activity introduced by TiO2 NPs in the resultant ACF–rGO–TiO2 composite was demonstrated via the proof-of-concept application of disposing organic dyes, i.e. Rhodamine B (RhB). Moreover, the photocatalytic degradation of laden RhB dye can effectively make ACF–rGO–TiO2 composites regenerate the adsorption capacity, promoting two practical values: (1) eliminating rather than removing dye pollutants and (2) recycling rather than consuming adsorbents. The synergistic functionalization highlights the potential of 3D ACF–rGO–TiO2 composite as a promising massive adsorbent with photocatalytic activities for environment purifications.

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