AuNPs-decorated Cl-doped In2O3 nanoparticles for enhanced photocatalytic degradation of carbamate pesticide and chlorinated herbicide

Abstract

The widespread use of agrochemicals like carbaryl and 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) has led to severe environmental contamination and health risks, necessitating efficient remediation strategies. While semiconductor photocatalysis offers promise for pollutant degradation, conventional In₂O₃-based systems suffer from limited visible-light absorption and rapid charge recombination. This study addresses these challenges by developing a dual-functional Au nanoparticles (Au_NPs)-modified, Cl-doped In₂O₃ nanocomposite for enhanced photocatalytic degradation of carbaryl and 2,4-D. The synergistic integration of Cl doping and Au_NPs decoration leverages halogen-induced band structure modulation and plasmonic effects to improve light harvesting, charge separation, and redox activity. Systematic evaluations demonstrate superior degradation efficiency, practical applicability, recyclability, and mechanistic insights into the photocatalytic process. This work advances In₂O₃-based photocatalysis and provides a strategic framework for designing high-performance semiconductor catalysts for environmental remediation.