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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