Synthesis of mesoporous graphene and tourmaline co-doped titania composites and their photocatalytic activity towards organic pollutant degradation and eutrophic water treatment

Mesoporous graphene and tourmaline co-doped titania composite was prepared using a direct sol–gel co-condensation combined with solvothermal treatment technique. The composite exhibited a three-dimensional (3D) interconnected mesostructure and anatase phase-structure with a large surface area (218 m2 g− 1) and uniform pore size. Compared with pure titania, the photocatalytic activity of the composite was enhanced significantly towards aqueous organic pollutant rhodamine B and norfloxacin degradation under simulated sunlight irradiation. Subsequently, this composite was successfully applied to the actual eutrophic water treatment.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Graphene and tourmaline co-doped TiO2 composite was prepared by sol-gel technique. ► The morphology, porosity, and optical absorption property were well characterized. ► This composite exhibited high activity under simulated sunlight irradiation. ► This composite was successfully applied to the actual eutrophic water treatment.