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• The magnetic Co@NC-800 exhibited excellent cycle stability in PMS activation. • Co nanoparticles under confinement promoted the catalytic ability and stability. • A two-pathway mechanism was presented in Co@NC-800/PMS system. • The Co@NC-800/PMS showed high efficiency in various antibiotics and water bodies. The integration of metal nanoparticles into carbon materials has catch considerable attention. In this study, we have successfully fabricated the N-doped porous carbon encapsulated magnetic Co nanoparticles (Co@NC-800) through a two-step pyrosis of zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIF-67). The obtained Co@NC-800 exhibited excellent stability in activating peroxymonosulfate (PMS) towards tetracycline (TC) degradation without obvious Co leaching and magnetically separable. The removal efficiency reached up to 90.1% within 3 min and 74.7% of total organic carbon (TOC) removal efficiency could be obtained in 30 min towards TC by Co@NC-800/PMS system. Mechanism explorations revealed the encapsulated Co nanoparticles in the porous N-doped carbon promoted the catalytic activity and stability. The two-pathway mechanism study indicated that radical and non-radical oxidations acted together in TC degradation. Moreover, some potential factors, including PMS dosage, TC concentration, solution pH value, anion/organic matters and temperature were investigated. The Co@NC-800/PMS system exhibited high efficiency in removal of various antibiotics (oxytetracycline, chlortetracycline and deoxytetracycline). Even in actual water bodies (tap water, river water and pharmaceutical wastewater), the Co@NC-800/PMS system displayed excellent performance. This study proposed a design of metal nanoparticles under confinement for fabricating highly active catalysts towards PMS activation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A solvothermal method was used to in-situ growing a series MILs onto the iron network. • The 3D Fe/MILs showed high adsorption capacity and excellent recovery ability towards TC. • The growth process of MILs on iron network was discussed. • The adsorption mechanism of Fe/MIL-100(Fe) was investigated. • The Fe/MIL-100(Fe) system exhibited high removal efficiency in actual water. Considering the low recyclability of powder adsorbents, an efficient method is needed to fabricate a novel three-dimensional (3D) adsorbents. Take advantage of the 3D iron network and admirable adsorption performance of the Fe-based metal-organic framework (Fe-MOF), a solvothermal method was used to in-situ growing a series of Fe-based MOFs (MIL-53(Fe) MIL-100(Fe) and MIL-101(Fe)) onto the iron network (MIL stands for Materials of Institute Lavoisier). The successful growing of MILs(Fe) on the iron network was verified by optical microscopy, SEM, XRD, FT-IR and XPS characterizations. As expected, the 3D MILs(Fe) (Fe/MILs) inherited the high adsorption capacity of powdery MILs(Fe), while excellent recycling performance was obtained. Among them, Fe/MIL-100(Fe) exhibited the highest performance towards tetracycline (TC), more than 95% of TC could be removed at fifth adsorption cycle. Mechanism indicated that the π-π and hydrogen bonding (H-bonding) interactions between Fe/MIL-100(Fe) and TC molecules played an essential role in the adsorption process. Besides, the Fe/MIL-100(Fe) adsorbent was stable in water with negligible iron leaching in solution. It is worth noting that Fe/MIL-100(Fe) kept a high adsorption performance towards TC in a wide pH range of 2–10 and suffered minor influence from the anion and humic acid in solution. Even in actual aqueous solution (tap water, river water and pharmaceutical wastewater), high performance was presented by the Fe/MIL-100(Fe) adsorbent. This work provided a new method to synthesis 3D MILs(Fe) adsorbents for wastewater remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Mn-MIL-53(Fe) was synthesized by one-step solvothermal method. • The obtained Mn-MIL-53(Fe) could efficiently activate peroxymonosulfate (PMS). • Reaction parameters of Mn-MIL-53(Fe)/PMS system for TC degradation were optimized. • Possible mechanism of tetracycline (TC) degradation and TC degradation pathway were investigated proposed. • The Mn-MIL-53(Fe) system exhibited high efficiency in actual water. Herein, Mn-doped MIL-53(Fe) were fabricated via one-pot solvothermal method and used for peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation towards tetracycline (TC) degradation from aqueous solution. The characterizations of SEM, FTIR and XRD were utilized to reveal the morphology and structure of the materials. The results showed that Mn-MIL-53(Fe)-0.3 displayed the optimal catalytic performance, the removal efficiency of TC could reach 93.2%. Moreover, the catalytic activity of Mn-MIL-53(Fe) towards TC under different initial pH values, co-existing anions (C l - , CO 3 2 - and SO 4 2 - ) and humic acid (HA) were investigated. The results of thermodynamic experiment suggested that the catalytic process was endothermic. In addition, integrated with capture experiments results and the characterization results of electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), which revealed that SO 4 · - and H O - were the reactive radicals involving in the reaction. More importantly, the possible activation mechanism was discussed in detail based on the X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy results. The active species were generated by the active sites of Fe(II) and Mn(II) on Mn-MIL-53(Fe) effectively activated PMS. Furthermore, the degradation intermediates and possible degradation pathway were investigated by LC-MS. Finally, the catalyst also showed good performance in actual wastewater and demonstrated good recyclability. The Mn-MIL-53(Fe)/PMS system exhibited a promising application prospect for antibiotic-containing waste water treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel yolk-shell Ag 3 PO 4 @MIL-53(Fe) Z-scheme photocatalyst was fabricated via a "bottle-around-ship" like method. Experiments on the treatment of tetracycline upon visible light irradiation showed that the as-prepared photocatalyst possessed excellent photocatalytic performance. Experimental results showed that tetracycline removal efficiency of the yolk-shell Ag 3 PO 4 @MIL-53(Fe) Z-scheme photocatalyst was almost 3 times higher than that of MIL-53(Fe). The enhanced photocatalytic performance of Ag 3 PO 4 @MIL-53(Fe) nanocomposite could be contributed to its higher surface area, better absorption capability, and greater charge separation efficiency. In addition, the H 2 O 2 concentration detection results for Ag 3 PO 4 (154 μmol/L) and Ag 3 PO 4 @MIL-53(Fe) (52 μmol/L) indicated that a big part of generated H 2 O 2 on the Ag 3 PO 4 core would be quickly decomposed by the MIL-53(Fe) shell and generated more reactive species through the photo-Fenton-like reaction, which is beneficial for the improvement of photocatalytic performance. This is a promising approach to fabricate yolk-shell structure photocatalyst and a different aspect to design multiple semiconductor composites heterojunction for environmental remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • In situ growth improved the interfacial mass transfer resistance of photoanode. • Selection of MOF-5 as a photosensitizer provided a highly active site interface layer. • The pulse deposition realized the orderly anchoring of Zn2+ in Ti3+-TiO 2 -NTs. • The self-assembly process maintained the stable photosensitivity of the photoanode. • Ar-ZnO/Ti3+-TiO 2 -NTs take advantage of the carrier transport between ZnO and TiO 2 -NTs. Traditional powder-coated photoanodes suffer from poor interfacial-tightness and high complex interfacial mass transfer resistance. In addition, the treatment rate of photoanodes on antibiotics is limited due to the electrode active area and the mutual restriction between the electrode and the height of treated liquid. Ar-ZnO/Ti3+-TiO 2 -NTs photoanode in this study solved the above problems. Ti3+-TiO 2 nanotubes (Ti3+-TiO 2 -NTs) after electrochemical reduction were used as the conductive substrate. MOF-5 was grown in situ on the substrate by pulsed deposition and microwave hydrothermal self-assembly, which provided both high active sites and effective photosensitivity. Finally, Ar-ZnO/Ti3+-TiO 2 -NTs photoanode was constructed after reduction atmosphere sculpture. The stable structure of TiO 2 hollow nanotubes and the three-dimensional network structure of MOF-5 were beneficial to improve the high-pressure resistance of the structure in the process of photoanode application. Meanwhile, the reduced self-doping of Ti3+ enhanced the substrate conductivity, the pulsed deposition of Zn decreased ion leaching, and the microwave accelerated the self-assembly process of MOF-5. The Ar-ZnO/Ti3+-TiO 2 -NTs photoanode performed excellent degradability for multiple antibiotics (greater than 90%, 60 min) with the photoelectrocatalytic synergy factor of 21.16, and the performance was maintained after three months. This work enriched photoelectrode development, and provide novel ideas for MOFs to participate in antibiotic removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• mNGS showed higher detection rates in left-sided infective endocarditis patients. • Combining mNGS and blood culture can further improve the detection rates of LSIE. • mNGS detection rate was associated with four clinical factors in LSIE patients. • mNGS was superior in detecting gram-negative bacteria, fungi, and mixed infections. Infective endocarditis is a life-threatening uncommon infectious disease, and we aimed to explore the clinical utility of venous or arterial blood-based metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) approaches to diagnose left-sided infective endocarditis (LSIE). We prospectively studied 79 LSIE patients who received valvular surgery in our hospital. Results of blood culture, valve culture, venous blood-based mNGS, arterial blood-based mNGS, venous blood-based mNGS plus blood culture, and arterial blood-based mNGS plus blood culture were evaluated and compared. Both venous blood- and arterial blood-based mNGS methods displayed significantly higher positive detection rates than blood culture and valve culture (43.0 %, 49.4 % vs. 32.9 %, 19.0 %; P < 0.001). Strikingly, when combining blood-based mNGS and blood culture, the positive rate could be further improved to more than 60 %. Moreover, we found mNGS LSIE detection was closely associated with preoperative leukocyte (P = 0.027), neutrophil value (P = 0.018), vegetation ≥ 14 mm (P = 0.043), and vegetations in aortic valve (P = 0.048). In addition, we discovered that blood-based mNGS had a superir capacity over blood culture to detect gram-negative bacteria, fungi, Bartonella Quintana , and mixed infections than blood culture. This study indicates that venous blood- and arterial blood-based mNGS displayed high positive rate in the rapid detection of pathogens in high-risk LSIE patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Non-antibiotic pharmaceutical also promoted the widespread enrichment of ARGs. • Low concentrations of carbamazepine enriched ARGs more than high concentrations. • Carbamazepine promoted the aggregation of microorganisms and conjugation of ARGs. • TCS, QS and T4SS played important roles in the horizontal transfer of ARGs. • Carbamazepine increased the potential for pathogens to acquire antibiotic resistance. Antimicrobial resistance is a global health security issue of widespread concern. Recent studies have unveiled the potential contribution of non-antibiotics to the emergence of antimicrobial resistance. This study investigated the effect of carbamazepine, a non-antibiotic pharmaceutical, on the fate of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) during anaerobic digestion. The results, as revealed by both metagenomic sequencing and absolute quantification, demonstrated that carbamazepine induced the enrichment of ARGs and increased the abundance of ARGs hosts by 1.2–2.1 times. Carbamazepine facilitated microbial aggregation and intercellular communication by upregulating functional genes associated with two-component systems, quorum sensing and type IV secretion systems, thereby increasing the frequency of ARGs conjugation. Furthermore, carbamazepine induced the acquisition of ARGs by pathogens and elevated the overall pathogenic abundance. This study revealed the mechanisms of microbial self-regulation and ARGs transmission under carbamazepine stress, highlighting the potential health risks posed by non-antibiotic pharmaceuticals during the safe disposal of sludge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A novel photocatalyst constructed by BNQDs and UPCN was prepared. • Intensified exciton dissociation and charge transfer across BNQDs/UPCN heterostructure. • Higher photocatalytic efficiency toward molecular oxygen activation under visible light. • Mechanisms of enhanced photocatalytic activities were proposed. Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C 3 N 4) has enormous potential for photocatalysis, but only possesses moderate activity because of excitonic effects and sluggish charge transfer. Herein, metal-free heterostructure photocatalyst constructed by boron nitride quantum dots (BNQDs) and ultrathin porous g-C 3 N 4 (UPCN) was successfully developed for overcoming these defects. Results showed that the BNQDs loaded UPCN can simultaneously promote the dissociation of excitons and accelerate the transfer of charges owing to the negatively charged functional groups on the surface of BNQDs as well as the ultrathin and porous nanostructure of g-C 3 N 4. Benefiting from the intensified exciton dissociation and charge transfer, the BNQDs/UPCN (BU) photocatalyst presented superior visible-light-driven molecular oxygen activation ability, such as superoxide radical (O 2 −) generation and hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2) production. The average O 2 − generation rate of the optimal sample (BU-3) was estimated to be 0.25 μmol L−1 min−1, which was about 2.3 and 1.6 times than that of bulk g-C 3 N 4 and UPCN. Moreover, the H 2 O 2 production by BU-3 was also higher than that of bulk g-C 3 N 4 (22.77 μmol L−1) and UPCN (36.13 μmol L−1), and reached 72.30 μmol L−1 over 60 min. This work reveals how rational combination of g-C 3 N 4 with BNQDs can endow it with improved photocatalytic activity for molecular oxygen activation, and provides a novel metal-free and highly efficient photocatalyst for environmental remediation and energy conversion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • A new magnetic Cu-Fe oxide (CuFeO) was developed as the photo-Fenton catalyst. • CuFeO/H 2 O 2 /Vis system can work efficiently at slightly basic pH conditions. • The completely removal of 50 mg L−1 of SMZ has been achieved in 30 min. • HO and photoinduced e− are mainly responsible for the degradation of SMZ. Abstract The presence of antibiotics in aquatic environments has attracted global concern. Heterogeneous photo-Fenton process is an attractive yet challenging method for antibiotics degradation, especially when such a process can be operated at neutral pH values. In this work, a new magnetic Cu-Fe oxide (CuFeO) was developed as the heterogeneous photo-Fenton catalyst through a facile two-step method. The obtained CuFeO particles were found to be more efficient to activate H 2 O 2 into radicals (OH and O 2 −) than Cu-Fe Prussian blue analogue (Cu-Fe PBA, the precursor) at near neutral conditions. The removal rate of sulfamethazine (SMZ) in CuFeO/H 2 O 2 /Vis system was much higher than those in CuO/H 2 O 2 /Vis and Fe 3 O 4 /H 2 O 2 /Vis systems. It was observed that nearly complete removal of SMZ from ultrapure water, river water and tap water can be achieved in 30 min in CuFeO/H 2 O 2 /Vis system. The influence of different process parameters on the SMZ degradation efficiency was then examined and the catalytic stability of CuFeO was also tested. The SMZ degradation intermediates during the process were analyzed and the degradation pathway was proposed based on LC–MS results. The mechanisms for H 2 O 2 activation were studied by X-ray photoelectron spectrum analysis, radical scavenging and electron spin-trapping experiments. It is suggested that the synergistic effect among photo-induced electrons, Cu and Fe in CuFeO exhibits excellent performance in the catalytic activation of H 2 O 2. This work is expected to provide useful information for the design and synthesis of bimetallic oxide for heterogeneous photo-Fenton reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • TCN was prepared by molecular copolymerization of urea and 2-thiobarbitucid acid. • The band gap of TCN could be adjusted by changing the amount of 2-thiobarbitucid acid. • TCN exhibited enhanced photocatalytic activity for hydrogen production and SMZ degradation. • Enhanced charge carrier separation efficiency is obtained by modification. Abstract Carbon nitride is a promising metal-free visible light driven photocatalyst and sustainable material for address contaminant pollution and water splitting. However, the insufficient visible light absorption and fast charge recombination of carbon nitride have limited its practical application. Herein, the self-assembly carbon nitride (denoted as TCN) by molecular doping copolymerization of urea and 2-thiobarbitucid acid (TA) was prepared. XPS and elemental analytical results indicated that TA was doped in the framework of carbon nitride successfully. The self-assembly copolymerization would result in the change of morphology, intrinsic electron and band structure of carbon nitride. Theoretical calculations and experiments confirm that the band gap of TCN could be adjusted by changing the amount of 2-thiobarbitucid acid. Moreover, the efficiency of charge carrier transfer and separation was greatly enhanced. As a result, the optimized photocatalyst TCN-0.03 exhibited superior activity with a high reaction rate of 0.058 min−1 for the degradation of sulfamethazine under visible light irradiation, which is 4.2 times higher than that of urea based carbon nitride (U-CN). As a multifunctional photocatalyst, TCN-0.03 showed enhanced activity for hydrogen production (55 μmol h−1), which was 11 times higher than U-CN. The apparent quantum efficiency reached to 4.8% at 420 nm. A possible mechanism was proposed to explain the photocatalytic reaction process. This work provides insight into the rational design of modified carbon nitride by other organic monomers copolymerization to enhance the photocatalytic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In order to intuitively and clearly evaluate the potential and current distribution, the fluid flow and mixing, as well as mass transfer involved in electrocoagulation process for As and Sb removal, numerical simulation of electric field, flow field and mass transfer were constructed by Comsol Multiphysics and verified by experiments. Results displayed that the primary current and potential distribution were improved by changing electrode distance or adding insulator in a batch reactor. When configuration 2 and 2 cm electrode distance were applied, a more uniform primary current distribution and higher electrode current efficiency were obtained. In a continuous flow reactor, the increase of flow rate resulted in the left shift of the peak in residence time distribution curve, gradual decrease of the tailing area, reduction of the stagnation zone, and more uniform mixing of the fluid. However, higher than 0.043 L/min was unfavorable to the formation of flocs and its effective combination with pollutants. According to the simulation of mass transfer, at the initial stage, the rate of electrolysis/hydrolysis was greater than that of mass transfer. Fe2+, OH−, and Fe(OH) 2 were primarily concentrated on the anode, cathode, and between the two electrodes, respectively. Under the action of electromigration, diffusion and convection, the concentration distribution of Fe(OH) 2 increased at the direction of streamline. The concentration of Fe2+ and OH− achieved the minimum value at the outlet. However, Fe(OH)+ concentration and distribution were hardly affected by the treatment time, and once generated, immediately proceed to the next hydrolysis reaction. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • The primary current and potential distribution with different reactor configurations were modeled and improved. • The hydrodynamics of EC system were evaluated and the continuous flow reactor was optimized. • The diffusion, migration and convection of typical products were systematically analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Semiconductor photocatalysis has been regarded as one of promising approach to solve the environmental pollution and energy crisis. Boron nitride (BN), as a new nanomaterial, has distinct structures and properties that can add attractive properties to photocatalysts. In the past few years, many encouraging achievements have been made in the research field of BN-based semiconductor photocatalysts. Semiconductor/BN composites have attracted extensive attention due to its well photocatalytic activity. This work summarized recent progress on the synthesis of BN and semiconductor/BN composites. These semiconductor/BN composites have various applications in photocatalytic fields, such as pollutant degradation and photocatalytic hydrogen evolution. The role of BN in semiconductor/BN composites is discussed in depth. Coupling BN with semiconductors can improve the photocatalytic activity of semiconductors due to their surface charge transfer properties. The photocatalytic mechanisms and different types of photocatalysts are studied. Furthermore, perspectives on semiconductor/BN composites are discussed, including the challenges for large scale preparations and theoretical calculation of composites. It is expected that this review would be helpful for designing of highly efficient semiconductor/BN composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A three-dimensional electrode system was constructed. • FMBC acts as a third electrode in the electrochemical system. • Three-dimensional system promotes organic matter leaching and methane production. Electrochemical pretreatment (EPT) of sewage sludge demonstrates an aggressive effect on extracellular polymeric substance destruction and sludge solubilization. While the low efficiency of methane production does not match the initial dissolution of the sludge after EPT. Here we proposed a novel method, using Fe-Mn-modified biochar (FMBC) strengthening electrochemical pretreatment, aiming at improving the methanogenic efficiency. The strengthening mechanism of FMBC was studied according to the physicochemical parameters of sludge at different concentrations and the change of microbial community. Experimentally, with the addition of 2 g/L FMBC, the methane production increased by 7.96% and 10.06% compared with electrochemical pretreatment alone and the control group. The sludge organic matter solubilization varied from 344.6 mg/L in E0 to 383.4 mg/L in E2 after pretreatment. Simultaneously, analysis of microbial communities showed that the addition of 2 g/L FMBC obviously increased the relative abundance of Methanofastidiosum and Methanosaeta from 5.5% and 20.9% in CK to 16% and 28.7% in E2, respectively. The addition of FMBC also intensified the acetoclastic methanogenesis and methylotrophic methanogenesis. This study provides new ideas for the enhancement of electrochemical pretreatment of sludge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Porous MIL-100(Fe) immobilized wood aerogel composite (MIL-100(Fe)/WA) was constructed. • Pretreatment with Na 2 SO 3 /NaOH-H 2 O 2 enlarged the porosity and surface area of WA. • MIL-100(Fe) was in-situ immobilized on the microchannels in wood aerogel. • MIL-100(Fe)/WA achieved efficient removal of tetracycline via PDS activation. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are potential catalysts for persulfate exciting in antibiotic wastewater treatment while are limited in large-scale application given their powder state. Herein, benefiting from the compatibility and functionalization of natural wood supports, MIL-100(Fe) decorated wood aerogel composites (MIL-100(Fe)/WA) were constructed by chemical treatment and in-situ solvothermal synthesis. Na 2 SO 3 /NaOH-H 2 O 2 chemical treatment could effectively achieve the partial removal of lignification and hemicellulose in wood, resulting in improved porous characteristics. The corresponding porosity and surface area of WA increased by more than 40% compared with the original wood. Accordingly, after immobilizing MIL-100(Fe) on the microchannels in WA, MIL-100(Fe)/WA-PDS system could efficiently degrade tetracycline (TC), with a satisfied mineralization rate of 64.01% owing to the open porous structure of WA with high accessibility, and its kinetic constant (0.0520 L⋅mg−1⋅min−1) was 6.19 times that of MIL-100(Fe)/wood (0.0084). Quenching results and EPR analysis made clear that TC degradation mainly contributed to the produced O 2 −, 1O 2 and surface-bound radicals (SO 4 −, OH). LC-MS further uncovered the possible degradative pathways for TC. Moreover, it was found that MIL-100(Fe)/WA could behave well at pH of 2–10 and towards multiple antibiotics. This work may provide a facial way to apply MOFs-based/wood composites in water treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• MPs/NPs released from low-temperature carbonated water cannot be ignored. • Synergistic CO 2 bubbles and pressure amplify the leaching of MPs/NPs. • Repeated freeze-thaw cycles significantly increase MPs and NPs release. • Suitable plastics, carbonated water pretreatment, fewer freeze-thaw reduce MPs/NPs. • Provides insight into the release patterns of MPs in the natural environment. Carbonated beverages are characterized by low temperatures, multiple microbubbles, high pressure, and an acidic environment, creating ideal conditions for releasing contaminants from plastic bottles. However, the release patterns of microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) are poorly understood. We investigated the effects of plastic type, CO 2 filling volume, temperature, sugar content, and additive on the leakage of MPs/NPs and heavy metals. Our results showed that polypropylene bottles released greater MPs (234±9.66 particles/L) and NPs (9.21±0.73 × 107 particles/L) than polyethylene and polyethylene terephthalate bottles. However, subjecting the plastic bottles to 3 repeated inflation treatments resulted in 91.65-93.18% removal of MPs/NPs. The release of MPs/NPs increased with increasing CO 2 filling volume, driven by the synergistic effect of CO 2 bubbles and pressure. After 4 freeze-thaw cycles, the release of MPs and NPs significantly increased, reaching 450±38.65 MPs and 2.91±0.10 × 108 NPs per liter, respectively. The presence of sugar leads to an elevation in MPs release compared to sucrose-free carbonated water, while the addition of additives to carbonated water exhibits negligible effects on MPs release. Interestingly, actual carbonated beverages demonstrated higher MPs concentrations (260.52±27.18-281.38±61.33 particles/L) than those observed in our well-controlled experimental setup. Our study highlights the non-negligible risk of MPs/NPs in carbonated beverages at low temperatures and suggests strategies to mitigate human ingestion of MPs/NPs, such as selecting appropriate plastic materials, high-pressure carbonated water pretreatment, and minimizing freeze-thaw cycles. Our findings provide insights for further study of the release patterns of the contaminants in natural environments with bubbles, pressure, low temperature, and freeze-thaw conditions. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluoride in the hydrosphere exceeds the standard, which could be critically hazardous to human health and the natural environment. The adsorption method is a mature and effective way to remove pollutants in water, including fluoride. In this study, we synthesized three kinds of cerium-based metal–organic frameworks (Ce-MOFs) with different structures and properties by modulating the organic ligands (i.e., trimesic acid (BTC), 1,2,4,5-benzenetetracarboxylic acid (PMA), and terephthalic acid (BDC)) via the solvothermal method. The adsorption kinetics of Ce-MOFs on fluoride well fit the pseudo second order model, and their adsorption isotherms also conform to Langmuir isothermal model. The thermodynamic study reveals that the adsorption process is a spontaneous endothermic reaction. The maximum saturated adsorption capacities of Ce-BTC, Ce-PMA, and Ce-BDC are 70.7, 159.6, and 139.5 mg g−1, respectively. Ce-MOFs have stable and excellent adsorption capacity at pH = 3–9. Coexisting anions (Cl−, SO 4 2−, and NO 3 −) do not affect the performance of Ce-MOFs for fluoride removal. Moreover, Ce-MOFs also show their broad prospect as superior fluoride adsorbents because of their excellent performance and reusability in real water samples. Organic ligands have a remarkable influence on the defluoridation performance of Ce-MOFs. This work will provide a feasible idea for designing MOFs as superiors adsorbents for defluoridation. [Display omitted] • Ce-MOFs with different microstructures and properties were prepared by modulating ligands. • The types of organic ligands in MOFs play an important role in fluoride removal. • Ce-MOFs have stable and excellent adsorption capacity at pH = 3–9. • The mechanism is ion exchange, electrostatic interaction, and surface coordination. • Ce-MOFs are promising adsorbents in practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The synthesis methods of Fe-SACs from carbon-based materials have been summarized. • The application of carbon-based Fe-SACs in different AOPs systems has been discussed. • The catalytic sites and related mechanisms of carbon-based Fe-SACs have been revealed. • The stability of carbon-based Fe-SACs in the AOPs degradation system has been analyzed. Single-atom catalysts (SACs) combine the benefits of both heterogeneous and homogeneous catalysts, they have emerged as the frontier in advanced oxidation processes (AOPs). The isolated active metal centers of carbon-based single-metal atom catalysts can be utilized to the maximum extent. They have recently gained popularity in the realm of environmental catalysis because of their high activity, selectivity, and structural/chemical stability. Nitrogen-doped carbon-based Single-atom Fe catalysts (Fe-SACs) have a high density of the active site, low metal leaching rate and good catalytic performance, and thus have attracted the attention of researchers. However, there seems to be a lack of thorough and critical reviews on the use of carbon-based Fe-SACs for AOPs degradation of organic water pollution. In this review, we focused on the Fe-SACs made of carbon-based materials and their synthesis methods and physical characteristics. We also investigated at how Fe-SACs were used to effectively eliminate contaminants in different AOPs. In addition, the degradation mechanisms and stability of carbon-based Fe-SACs have been discussed. Finally, the advantages of carbon-based Fe-SACs in the catalytic degradation of pollutants are summarized, and the future opportunities and prospects of carbon-based Fe-SACs in the catalytic field are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the increasingly serious problem of arsenic-contaminated soil, biochar-loaded nanoscale zero-valent iron (nZVI@BC) was prepared in this study for remediation of arsenic-contaminated soil. Characterization analysis showed that nZVI was evenly dispersed on the biochar, the characteristic functional groups of biochar, including –CH, –OH, C O, C–O–C, –OH, etc., were enriched and strengthened, and a relatively stable Fe–OH was formed. The effects of various factors (different materials, nZVI loading ratio, and remediation time) on arsenic fractionation, pH, and CEC in soil were comprehensively investigated. The results demonstrated that arsenic stabilization was positively correlated with the dosage, nZVI loading ratio, and remediation time. 5% nZVI@BC (3:1) exhibited the best immobilization performance, significantly promoted the transformation from labile arsenic to iron-aluminum oxide binding state and residue state, and improved the available iron, pH, and CEC of the soil. The remediation mechanism was revealed, involving electrostatic attraction, surface adsorption, redox, complexation and co-precipitation. In addition, the bacterial community abundance, diversity, and species composition displayed discrepancies with various treatments, especially with 5% nZVI@BC (3:1). Sixty-six biomarker species were screened, mainly belonging to Actinobacteria and Gemmatimonadetes with biochar treatment as well as Firmicutes , Acidobacteria , and Chloroflexi with nZVI@BC treatment. This study will provide the essential theoretical basis and extensive application value for nZVI@BC remediation of arsenic-contaminated soil. [Display omitted] • The effects of various factors on arsenic immobilization were investigated. • 5% nZVI@BC (3:1) exhibited better arsenic immobilization performance. • The remediation mechanism was deeply explored. • The application of biochar and nZVI@BC changed the soil bacterial community. • Sixty-six biomarkers were screened. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The synthesis and adsorption properties of MOFs for fluoride removal were summarized. • The influence of system parameters on fluoride removal was discussed. • The practicability of MOFs was evaluated from reusability, toxicity, and cost. • The mechanism of fluoride removal by different MOFs was summarized. • The future research priorities of MOF-based materials in fluoride removal were put forward. Clean water is necessary in all areas of life, especially for our body. Fluoride in water has serious negative effects on human health and the environment. Effectively repairing fluoride-polluted water remains a critical mission. Among the numerous technologies for removing fluoride from water, metal–organic framework (MOF) materials are regarded as promising adsorption materials. In this study, the synthesis of MOFs and their application progress in aquatic defluoridation in recent years, which are classified according to the central metal ions, are reviewed. In particular, an understanding of the effect factors for water remediation is provided, and the potential environmental application is analyzed. The adsorption mechanism and the evaluation on potential practical applications for fluoride removal by different MOFs are elucidated. Finally, future research opportunities and prospects of MOF-based materials for fluoride removal are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar has received increasing attention in agricultural and environmental fields as an integrated solution to agricultural waste recycling, soil amendment, carbon sequestration, and greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction. However, obtaining the environmental benefits of biochar is limited by an inadequate number of soil applications. Currently, the willingness to use biochar in soil management is relatively low, which results from the insufficient understanding and promotion of the roles of biochar in soil management and climate change mitigation. This review article presents biochar applications based on carbon-neutral strategies in agricultural soil systems. The primary roles of biochar in soil improvement and remediation are discussed and the main soil application methods are introduced. The focus of this article is on biochar-based soil management strategies for contributing to carbon neutrality. Carbon sequestration using biochar is an application-dependent strategy, as the key to obtaining this ecological benefit is to store biochar products in soil via effective agricultural management. This article offers insights into biochar-based soil management strategies and their contribution to carbon neutrality in agricultural soil systems, with recommendations for appropriate government involvement in promoting biochar-based soil management and for incorporating biochar into the carbon trading market. • The non-CO 2 GHGs account for the majority of carbon emission via agricultural soil. • Incorporating biochar into the global carbon trading market is recommended. • Using biochar to help achieve carbon neutrality is an application-dependent strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A series of BC@FexC were synthesized via solvothermal reaction and high-temperature calcination. • 1.0-BC@FexC exhibited excellent performance to activate PDS for NOR degradation. • The catalytic mechanism of NOR degradation by the 1.0-BC@FexC/PDS system was investigated. • The 1.0-BC@FexC/PDS system showed potential in simulated wastewater treatment. The magnetic Fe-MOFs derivatives obtained by high-temperature calcination under inert atmosphere have been studied and acted as high-efficiency catalysts in wastewater remediation. However, due to the shortcoming that the unstable structure of Fe-MOFs derivatives tends to collapse and agglomerate easily, it is necessary to find a support to improve its dispersibility and stability. In this work, an effective method was provided to fabricate biochar-loaded MIL-53(Fe) derivatives (BC@FexC) to activate peroxydisulfate (PDS) for norfloxacin (NOR) degradation. The efficiency of the BC@FexC/PDS system for NOR removal can reach to 91.2% within 15 min, and the reaction constant (k) was 52.15 times of BC/PDS and 22.19 times of FexC/PDS. Characterization results illustrated that the superior spatial pore structure and exposed active sites of BC@FexC allowed NOR to diffuse and interact with the catalyst efficiently. OH, SO 4 − and 1O 2 were the main reactive oxygen species involved in NOR degradation. Moreover, the BC@FexC/PDS system exhibited excellent stability that almost unaffected by various environmental conditions (such as tap water, river water, and medical wastewater), which would provide a reference path for application in actual water treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MOF-derived multi-metal nanomaterials are attracting numerous attentions in widespread applications such as catalysis, sensors, energy storage and conversion, and environmental remediation. Compared to the monometallic counterparts, the presence of foreign metal is expected to bring new physicochemical properties, thus exhibiting synergistic effect for enhanced performance. MOFs have been proved as a good platform for the fabrication of polymetallic nanomaterials with requisite features. Herein, various design strategies related to constructing multi-metallic nanomaterials from MOFs are summarized for the first time, involving metal nodal substitution, seed epitaxial growth, ion-exchange strategy, guest species encapsulation, solution impregnation and combination with extraneous substrate. Afterwards, the recent advances of multi-metallic nanomaterials for electrocatalytic applications, including oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), are systematically discussed. Finally, a personal outlook on the future trends and challenges are also presented with hope to enlighten deeper understanding and new thoughts for the development of multi-metal nanomaterials from MOFs. Multi-metal nanomaterials derived from MOFs have attracted increasingly attention due to their unique properties. The novel design strategies related to constructing MOF-derived polymetallic nanomaterials are summarized for the first time. Then the recent progress of these functional materials for electrocatalytic applications are systematically discussed. Finally, the challenges and perspectives in future work are proposed. [Display omitted] • An overview of the design strategies related to constructing multi-metallic nanomaterials from MOFs is highlighted. • Recent progress of MOF-derived multi-metallic nanomaterials in electrocatalytic applications is discussed. • Challenges and perspectives for MOF-derived multi-metallic electrocatalysts are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The functions of core–shell structured nanoparticles in PDT of cancer are discussed. • The applications of core–shell structured nanoparticles for photodynamic synergistic therapy of cancer are summarized. • The imaging applications of these core–shell structured nanoparticles in PDT-based cancer treatment are introduced. • The challenges and opportunities of core–shell structured nanoparticles in PDT-based cancer treatment and related imaging are proposed. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an emerging noninvasive therapy modality for treating cancer diseases. However, conventional PDT suffers from poor stability of organic photosensitizers, limited tissue penetration depth of excitation light and hypoxic tumor microenvironment, which hinders its modern clinical applications. The combination of PDT and nanotechnology is becoming a promising technology to tackle these troubles. Core-shell structured nanoparticles are of great interest as they can integrate the functionalities of individual components into one structure and exhibit improved physical and chemical properties that are different from the single component. Therefore, many efforts have been paid to develop core–shell structured nanoparticles for PDT of cancer. This review provides a panorama of the latest achievement in the developments of core–shell structured nanoparticles for PDT-based cancer treatment and related imaging. Concretely, this review starts with the categories of core–shell structured nanoparticles, followed by the functions of these nanoparticles in PDT of cancer, including photosensitizer delivery vehicle, energy transducer, photosensitizer and hypoxic tumor microenvironment modulator. Then the applications of core–shell structured particles for photodynamic synergistic therapy of cancer are highlighted as well as their imaging applications as contrast agents. Finally, perspectives on the major challenges and opportunities are presented for better developments in the future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The role of carboxyl position of phthalic acid on carbon nitride properties has been discussed. • IA and TA may form amorphous carbon wrapped on the surface of carbon nitride in the form of carbon doping. • The PA-CN exhibits an enhanced photogenerated electron-hole separation, high charge transport capacity, and prolonged lifetime of the carriers. • The PA-CN exhibited the optimal photocatalytic activity for SMZ degradation. Polymeric carbon nitride as photocatalysts to address environmental issues attract broad interest. Anchoring aromatic ring on CN surface can improve its charge pair separation, but the effect of functional group position of aromatic ring on its performance is ignored. Herein, we used three isomers of phthalic acid (phthalic acid, isophthalic acid and terephthalic acid) and urea to synthesize modified carbon nitride as a photocatalyst to remove sulfamethazine (SMZ). The phthalic acid may act as group modification and enhanced the absorption of longer wavelengths of carbon nitride, while part of isophthalic acid and terephthalic acid may enter the framework of carbon nitride as benzene ring and the others may act as the amorphous carbon in carbon nitride. Consequently, the phthalic acid modified carbon nitride (PA-CN) exhibited the optimal degradation performance for SMZ removal (0.0737 min−1). It was further revealed that the O2− and h+ played the significant role in the photocatalytic process. This study reveals the effect of the position of organic acid functional groups on the performance of carbon nitride, and points out that PA-CN can be applied to the purification of wastewater containing refractory pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Pyrite is an excellent heterogeneous catalyst for AOPs. • Slow Fe2+ release and pH self-regulation are attractive pyrite properties in AOPs. • Interaction of Fe3+ and pyrite facilitates Fe2+ regeneration and Fe2+/Fe3+ cycle. • Various strategies for enhancing pyrite-mediated AOPs are summarized. Proper treatment of wastewater is one of the key issues to the sustainable development of human society, and people have been searching for high-efficiency and low-cost methods for wastewater treatment. This article reviews recent studies about pyrite-mediated advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) in removing refractory organics from wastewater. The basic information of pyrite and its characteristics for AOPs are first introduced. Then, the performance and mechanisms of pyrite-mediated Fenton oxidation, electro-Fenton oxidation, and persulfate oxidation processes are carefully reviewed and presented. Natural pyrite is an abundant low-cost heterogeneous catalyst for AOPs, and the slow release of Fe2+ and the self-regulation of solution pH are highlighted characteristics of pyrite-mediated AOPs. In AOPs, the interaction between Fe3+ and pyrite facilitates the Fe2+ regeneration and the Fe2+/Fe3+ cycle. Making pyrite into nanoparticles, assisting by ultrasound and light irradiation, and adding exogenous Fe3+, organic chelating agents, or biochar is effective to enhance the performance of pyrite-mediated AOPs. Based on the analyses of those pyrite-mediated AOPs and their enhancing strategies, the future development directions are proposed in the aspects of toxicity research, mechanism research, and technological coupling. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The excellent properties of plastics make them widely used all over the world. However, when plastics enter the environmental medium, microplastics will inevitably be produced due to physical, chemical and biological factors. Studies have shown that microplastics have been detected in terrestrial, aquatic and atmospheric environments. In addition, the presence of microplastics will provide a new artificial adhesion substrate for biofilms. It has been proved that the formation of biofilms could significantly change some properties of microplastics. Some studies have found that microplastics attached with biofilms have higher environmental risks and eco-toxicity. Therefore, considering the widespread existence of microplastics and the ecological risks of microplastic biofilms, the physical and chemical properties of biofilms on microplastics and their impact on microplastics in aqueous environment are worth reviewing. In this paper, we comprehensively reviewed representative studies in this area. Firstly, this study reviews that the existence of biofilms could change the transport and deposition of microplastics. Subsequently, the presence of biofilms would enhance the ability of microplastics to accumulate pollutant, such as persistent organic pollutants, heavy metals and antibiotics. Moreover, the effect of biofilms on microplastics enrichment of harmful microorganisms is summarized. Finally, some future research needs and strategies are proposed to better understand the problem of biofilms on microplastics. [Display omitted] • Microplastics enter terrestrial, aquatic and atmospheric environment through a variety of pathways. • Microplastics have impacts on creatures and humans. • Biofilms on microplastics have unique physicochemical properties. • The existence of biofilm affects microplastics in aqueous environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Cationic polyacrylamide (cPAM) at 3.0 mg/g TS recovered the methane production. • cPAM inhibited solubilization but facilitated hydrolysis and acidification. • The addition of cPAM effectively restored the performance of anaerobic sludge. • The presence of cPAM increased the abundances of dominant acidogens and methanogens. • cPAM reduced the bisphenol-A leaching and the reactive oxygen species in cell. The broad sources of microplastics rendered their inevitable transportation from raw wastewater to wastewater treatment plants. Most of the microplastics are found to be accumulated in waste activated sludge (WAS) and the retention of microplastics is now threatening the subsequent anaerobic digestion of WAS. Therefore, it is urgent to develop viable methods to mitigate the adverse impacts of microplastics on methane production. Here, the feasibility of adding cationic polyacrylamide (cPAM) to alleviate the toxicity of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) microplastics (i.e., 30 mg/g TS) to WAS anaerobic digestion was investigated. As a result, the moderate addition of cPAM (i.e., 3.0 mg/g TS) significantly recovered the methane production from 15.6 ± 1.7% inhibition to 5.8 ± 0.6% inhibition compared with the control reactor containing PVC microplastics (P < 0.01). Moreover, the addition of cPAM inhibited solubilization by increasing mass transfer resistance but facilitated hydrolysis and acidification by reducing inhibition of enzyme activities, thereby providing more bioavailable substrate for methane production. In the long-term operated reactor, the presence of cPAM at 3.0 mg/g TS effectively restored the average COD removal efficiency (63.1% to 76.2%, P < 0.01) and the daily methane production (70.3 mL/d to 83.0 mL/d, P < 0.01) of anaerobic sludge. Aligning with the recovered performance of anaerobic sludge, the total microbial populations and the relative abundances of dominant acidogens and methanogens were elevated with the presence of cPAM. Further mechanism studies revealed that cPAM carried on its positive influence mainly through reducing bisphenol-A (BPA) leaching and efficiency of reactive oxygen species (ROS) entering the cell. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, various phosphate nanoparticles (PNPs) have been synthesized and applied for in situ Pb remediation in laboratory investigations. Here, three kinds of PNPs, CMC-nClAP (carboxymethyl cellulose stabilized nano-chlorapatite), SDS-nClAP (sodium dodecyl sulfate stabilized nano-chlorapatite) and Rha-nClAP (rhamnolipid stabilized nano-chlorapatite) were used to investigate the influence of PNPs on Pb bioavailability, enzyme activities and bacterial community in Pb polluted sediment. Pb bioavailability can be reduced by the application of CMC-nClAP, SDS-nClAP and Rha-nClAP with the maximum increases of residual fraction to 57.2 %, 58.3 % and 61.4 %, respectively. Alternatively, catalase activity, urease activity and protease activity also changed with the remediation of PNPs. Microbes responded quickly to PNPs in different ways: bacterial richness was all increased while bacterial diversity was only increased with the application of SDS-nClAP. Three dominant species, Proteobacteria , Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes were redistributed differentially during the treatment of PNPs. Interestingly, PNPs didn't significantly change the bacterial community structure in treated samples and CMC-nClAP induced fewer changes in microbial activity and community as compared with SDS-nClAP and Rha-nClAP. Overall, our findings suggested that long-term exposure to PNPs would decrease Pb bioavailability, regulate enzyme activities and affect bacterial community in sediments. The Pb bioavailability, physical-chemical properties of PNPs and properties of chemical/bio-surfactant may determine the response of microorganisms to PNPs in Pb polluted sediment. [Display omitted] • Pb bioavailability was reduced by the application of CMC-nClAP, SDS-nClAP and Rha-nClAP. • CMC-nClAP, SDS-nClAP and Rha-nClAP differentially affect the enzyme activity and bacteria community. • The physical-chemical properties of PNPs and chemical/bio-surfactant were more impactful to bacterial behaviors than Pb bioavailability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Materials Institute Lavoisier (MIL) has attracted increasingly attention due to their unique properties. This article emphasizes the primary strategies to improve the photocatalytic activity of MILs, including modification, doping and derivation. Their applications in the field of photocatalysis are comprehensively summarized. In addition, the challenges and perspectives in future work are proposed. [Display omitted] • MILs-based photocatalysts are summarized systematically. • Primary strategies to improve the photoactivity of MILs were discussed. • The synergistic effects between MILs and secondary components are summarized. • Prospects of design, synthesis and applications are investigated. As one of the most effective method to convert solar energy into chemical energy, photocatalysis has gained extensive attention over the recent years. Attributes such as excellent porous structure, ultrahigh surface area and abundant active sites give Materials Institute Lavoisier (MIL) an edge over conventional photocatalyst. Furthermore, the structure, surface active sites, light response range and charge separation efficiency of MILs can be adjusted through reasonable design and modification. Herein, the research progress of MIL-based materials for photocatalytic applications is reviewed. Special attention is paid to the photocatalytic mechanism and primary strategies to improve the photocatalytic activity, including modification, doping and derivation, which are reviewed from the aspects of structure, optical properties, and stability. The synergistic effects between MILs and secondary components in MIL-based composites are compared and summarized. Additionally, the development opportunities and unsolved problems of MIL-based materials in the field of photocatalysis are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Co-ZIF-(Fe) 0.5 was synthesized by using radical Co(OH) 2 as a cobalt ion source. • The obtained Co-ZIF-(Fe) 0.5 can efficiently activate peroxymonosulfate (PMS). • Tetracycline (TC) degradation mechanisms and pathway were investigated. • The Co-ZIF-(Fe) 0.5 /PMS system showed high efficiency in various actual water. The exploration of transforming insoluble solid hydroxide as a metal source into metal organic frameworks (MOFs) has attracted much attention in recent years. Herein, Fe-doped cobalt zeolitic imidazolate framework (Co-ZIF-(Fe) x , x meant the different adding amount of Fe3+) were successfully synthesized by using radical cobalt layered double hydroxide (Co(OH) 2) as a cobalt ion source. The catalytic performance of samples was evaluated by activating peroxymonosulfate (PMS) to degrade tetracycline hydrochloride (TC) from aqueous solution. Remarkably, the Co-ZIF-(Fe) 0.5 demonstrated the highest catalytic activity that the removal efficiency of TC could reach up to 96.71% within 5 min, which was 1.136 times higher than Co-ZIF. The Co-ZIF-(Fe) 0.5 have a larger surface area (268.97 m2 g−1) and pore volume (0.25 cm3 g−1), which can be contributed to a large number of accessible active sites. The possible TC degradation pathways were investigated on basis of the intermediates. According to the classical radical-quenching test and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) characterization, manifested that the degradation of TC was accomplished by the free radical (SO 4 −) and the non-radical (1O 2) pathways. Moreover, the Co-ZIF-(Fe) 0.5 /PMS system exhibited a high activity in a wide pH range (4–10) and less influenced by organic and inorganic ions. The effect of actual water (medical wastewater, river water and tap water) was discussed in detail, and the reusability was also be considered. Therefore, this study provided a reference for the fabricating of MOF-based catalysts for wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The functions of TMPs in photocatalytic H 2 production are discussed. • The synthetic strategies of TMPs and the loading methods of TMPs on semiconductors are introduced. • The applications and mechanisms of the common TMPs in photocatalytic H 2 production are summarized. • The challenges and opportunities of TMPs in photocatalytic H 2 production are proposed. Searching a sustainable way to efficiently produce hydrogen (H 2) is critical to realizing the "hydrogen economy", which may resolve the global energy and environmental issues nowadays. The conversion of solar energy to hydrogen energy based on photocatalytic water splitting is an ideal technology for environmental-friendly and economically producing H 2. Exploring high-performance and earth-abundant cocatalysts that can replace noble metal-based cocatalysts is essential to achieving highly efficient and cost-effective photocatalytic H 2 production. In recent years, transition metal phosphides (TMPs) have been regarded as promising candidates to replace noble metal-based cocatalysts for photocatalytic H 2 production. This review presents a panorama of the latest progress in the developments of TMPs for photocatalytic H 2 production. Concretely, this review starts with the functions of TMPs in photocatalytic H 2 production, followed by the synthetic strategies of TMPs and the loading methods of TMPs on semiconductors. Then the application and mechanism of the common TMPs in photocatalytic H 2 production are discussed in detail, including iron phosphides, cobalt phosphides and nickel phosphides. Lastly, we provide a comprehensive conclusion and outlook on the major challenges and opportunities for better developments in the future research. It is reasonable to believe that the TMPs is a rising star in photocatalytic H 2 production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, iron-cobalt layered double hydroxide (FeCo-LDH) was synthesized by sacrificing Co-containing zeolite imidazolate framework materials (ZIF-67) in iron ethanolic solution at room temperature. The catalytic performances of catalysts were investigated by activating peroxymonosulfate (PMS) for tetracycline (TC) degradation. Experimental results were demonstrated that FeCo-LDH with molar ratios of Fe and Co was 1.5 (FeCo-LDH-1.5) exhibited the highest catalytic activity, in which the TC degradation efficiency was reached to 92% within 5 ​min. The system of FeCo-LDH-1.5/PMS exhibited high stability and high efficiency in the influencing factor experiments including TC concentrations, initial pH, coexisting anions (Na+, Cl-, SO 4 2−) and humic acid (HA). Results of quenching experiments and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) characterization showed that O 2 •- and SO 4 •- radicals were the foremost reactive species for TC degradation. Liquid chromatograph - mass spectrometer (LC-MS) and three-dimensional excitation emission matrix fluorescence spectro photometer (3D EEMs) were conducted to investigate the degradation intermediate and possible degradation pathway. Moreover, high degradation efficiency was implemented in actual wastewater by the FeCo-LDH-1.5/PMS system. Compared to Fe3+/PMS and Co2+/PMS homogeneous system, the FeCo-LDH-1.5/PMS system was exhibited advantages in catalytic activity and high reusability. This study provided a convenient method to synthesis advanced hydrotalcite-like catalysts, which showed remarkable performance in actual wastewater treatment. The formation of FeCo-LDH sample and their catalyst capacity towards PMS activation for TC degradation. Image 1 • FeCo-LDH was prepared by sacrificing ZIF-67 templates in Fe3+ ethanolic solution. • FeCo-LDH can efficiently degrade tetracycline (TC) by activating PMS. • SO 4.•- and O 2 •- radicals were the main reactive species in FeCo-LDH/PMS system. • FeCo-LDH catalyst exhibited high removal efficiency after three recycle test. • The FeCo-LDH/PMS system keep high efficiency in actual water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Advances in photocatalytic inactivation ability with g-C 3 N 4 -based nanomaterials. • Elucidates photocatalytic disinfection efficiency and possible reaction mechanism. • The latest design considerations of g-C 3 N 4 -based photocatalysts are described. Microbial contamination in wastewater systems is a global problem and has attracted more and more attention. Therefore, a high-performance and environmentally friendly inactivation method is in great demand. Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C 3 N 4) exhibits lots of prominent properties such as appealing physicochemical stability, unique two-dimensional structure and tunable electronic structure. Unsatisfactorily, the pristine g-C 3 N 4 also faces the shortcomings arising from the limited visible light response and few active sites. Hence, a comprehensive review ("can we go further?") about modified g-C 3 N 4 photocatalysts for solar photocatalytic disinfection is necessary, which provides some inspiration for further optimization of the g-C 3 N 4 -based photocatalytic disinfection system. Meanwhile, the performance of g-C 3 N 4 -based photocatalysts for photocatalytic bacterial disinfection and the involved mechanisms are reviewed. In addition, the current prospects and possible challenges are pointed out. This review aims to summarize recent studies of g-C 3 N 4 -based photocatalysts in environmental disinfection and open a bright window to this booming research theme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• 2D GDY is an excellent carbon-based catalyst support. • Main strategies for loading catalysts on GDY support are summarized. • GDY mainly functions as an electron or hole transfer material in photocatalysis. • GDY improves electron transfer and reaction kinetics in electrocatalysis. The development of carbon materials brings a new two-dimensional catalyst support, graphdiyne (GDY), which is attracting increasing interest in the field of catalysis. This article presents a systematical review of recent studies about the characteristics, design strategies, and applications of GDY-supported catalysts. The sp- and sp2-hybridized carbon, high electrical conductivity, direct band gap, and high intrinsic carrier mobility are key characteristics for GDY to serve as a competitive catalyst support. Hydrothermal method (or solvothermal method), GDY in-situ growth, and electrochemical deposition are commonly used to load catalysts on GDY support. In the applications of GDY-supported photocatalysts, GDY mainly serves as an electron or hole transfer material. For the electrocatalytic hydrogen production, the unique electronic structure and high electrical conductivity of GDY can promote the electron transfer and water splitting kinetics. This review is expected to provide meaningful insight and guidance for the design of GDY-supported catalysts and their applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Recent advances of g-C 3 N 4 -based catalysts in AOPs beyond photocatalysis are reviewed. • Catalytic performance and involved mechanism are summarized. • Effect of water chemistry on catalytic performance is discussed. • Reusability and stability in water treatment are mentioned. • Future prospects in real environmental applications are proposed. Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) have attracted much interest in the field of water treatment owing to their high removal efficiency for refractory organic contaminants. Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C 3 N 4)-based catalysts with high performance and cost effectiveness are promising heterogeneous catalysts for AOPs. Most research on g-C 3 N 4 -based catalysts focuses on photocatalytic oxidation, but increasingly researchers are paying attention to the application of g-C 3 N 4 -based catalysts in other AOPs beyond photocatalysis. This review aims to concisely highlight recent state-of-the-art progress of g-C 3 N 4 -based catalysts in AOPs beyond photocatalysis. Emphasis is made on the application of g-C 3 N 4 -based catalysts in three classical AOPs including Fenton-based processes, catalytic ozonation and persulfates activation. The catalytic performance and involved mechanism of g-C 3 N 4 -based catalysts in these AOPs are discussed in detail. Meanwhile, the effect of water chemistry including pH, water temperature, natural organic matter, inorganic anions and dissolved oxygen on the catalytic performance of g-C 3 N 4 -based catalysts are summarized. Moreover, the reusability, stability and toxicity of g-C 3 N 4 -based catalysts in water treatment are also mentioned. Lastly, perspectives on the major challenges and opportunities of g-C 3 N 4 -based catalysts in these AOPs are proposed for better developments in the future research. Image, graphical abstract [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• 0D/1D mixed-dimensional BPTCN nanohybrids was successfully constructed. • The BPTCN reveals outstanding photocatalytic property for removal OTC-HCl and reduction Cr(VI) solution. • The electronic band structure of samples were also studied by DFT calculation. • Pave the way to create viable CN-based heterostructures for environmental remediation. As an "up-and-coming" two-dimensional (2D) material, black phosphorus (BP) has attracted much attention due to its abundant metal-free properties and broad application prospects in photocatalysis. This study introduces a promising sunlight-driven metal-free photocatalyst for oxytetracycline hydrochloride degradation and hexavalent chromium reduction in water and wastewater. The roles of BP quantum dots (BPQDs) in the distribution of electrons and photocatalytic performances were well identified by experimental and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. As expected, the specially designed 0D/1D structure shows unusual photocatalytic efficiency toward the degradation of oxytetracycline hydrochloride (0.0276 min−1) and reduction of hexavalent chromium (0.0404 min−1). Reactive species, namely, O 2 − and h+ comprised the primary photocatalytic mechanisms for oxytetracycline hydrochloride degradation. This work highlights that the combination of tubular g-C 3 N 4 (TCN) with BPQDs facilitates the charge spatial separation in the photocatalytic process, and provides alternative strategy for design of highly active and metal-free nanomaterials toward environmental remediation and sustainable solar-to-chemical energy conversion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A novel HDMP grafted CN photocatalyst (ACN) is synthesized. • DFT calculations elucidate subtle alterations of electronic structures. • Femtosecond transient absorption spectroscopy reveals intramolecular charge carrier dynamics. • ACN photocatalyst exhibits superior visible-light-driven photocatalytic activity for OTC degradation and H 2 O 2 production. Developing highly efficient photocatalysts for refractory pollutants degradation and hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2) production is an ideal strategy to tackle environmental pollution and energy crisis. Herein, we synthesize a novel 2-hydroxy-4,6-dimethylpyrimidine (HDMP) grafted polymeric carbon nitride (CN) photocatalyst (ACN) by a facile in situ keto-enol cyclization method for addressing these issues. The photogenerated electrons and holes are migrated to HDMP and heptazine moiety, respectively. And the average decay lifetime of photogenerated charges of CN and ACN-10 is increased form (222 ± 23) to (289 ± 38) ps. Benefiting from the controllable electronic migration and accelerated intramolecular charge separation, the ACN photocatalyst exhibits a superior visible-light-driven photocatalytic activity for oxytetracycline degradation and H 2 O 2 production. This work makes an insight into the intramolecular charge dynamics in CN, and presents a promising approach to the oxytetracycline degradation and H 2 O 2 production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal-organic framework (MOF) exhibited potential in water purification, while the poor water stability limited its applications. In this study, the integration of KOH activation and high-temperature pyrolysis was applied to fabricate ZIF-L derived N-doped porous carbon (NPC) adsorbent. KOH concentration had effect on the physical structure and chemical property of NPC and the NPC-0.5 demonstrated the highest adsorption capacity. The morphology, crystalline phase, composition and pore structure were characterized. KOH activated treatment brought larger surface area and abundant porosity, which were beneficial for the adsorptive reaction. It turned out that the NPC-0.5 with the highest adsorption capacity of 330.98 ​mg ​g−1 towards tetracycline (TC). Effects of the adsorbent dosage, pH values, initial concentrations and co-existing ions on adsorption performance were investigated. The adsorption process was a combination of chemical and physical interactions. Moreover, the NPC-0.5 exhibited high efficiency in removal of various antibiotics (oxytetracycline and chlortetracycline) and can efficiently remove TC from different water bodies (deionized water, tap water and river water). More importantly, after reused for four times, the adsorption property of NPC-0.5 showed a negligible decline. This study proposed a design of fabricating ZIF-derived N-doped porous carbon adsorbent with high performance towards antibiotics-containing wastewater remediation. The formation of NPC, NPC-0.25, NPC-0.5 and NPC-1 sample and their adsorption capacity towards TC. Image 1 • NPC was prepared through KOH activation and high-temperature pyrolysis of ZIF-L. • The KOH activation brought larger surface area and abundant porosity to NPC adsorbent. • High adsorption capacity of 330.98 ​mg ​g−1 can be obtained by NPC-0.5 towards TC. • The NPC-0.5 with superb reusability showed potential in wastewater remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A MOFs derived strategy is developed to construct nanoscale Bi 2 O 2 CO 3 /g-C 3 N 4 Z-scheme heterojunction. • The nanosized heterojunction enhances the visible-light absorption range and promotes spatial charge separation. • This structural feature serves to favor 1O 2 generation. • BO/CN shows improved visible-light photocatalytic activities for antibiotics degradation. A bismuth-based metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) derived strategy is developed to construct nanoscale Bi 2 O 2 CO 3 /porous g-C 3 N 4 Z-scheme heterojunction. Bi 2 O 2 CO 3 nanoparticles uniformly distribute in the surface, edge and interlayer of g-C 3 N 4 nanosheets, thus significantly increasing intimate contact at the interface. Furthermore, the Z-scheme heterojunctions and doped N atoms escaping from g-C 3 N 4 to Bi 2 O 2 CO 3 provide a charge transport chain to promote the charge carriers separation and accelerate the oxidation of O 2 − by holes, as confirmed by photoluminescence, photoelectrochemical and electron spin resonance measurements. Benefitting from these, the optimized composites not only outperform the pristine g-C 3 N 4 in the removal of sulfamethazine (SMT) within 90 min visible light illumination (λ > 420 nm) but also serve to selectively generate singlet oxygen (1O 2) during the molecular oxygen activation. The present study provides some guidelines for the design of photocatalysts via a MOF-assisted route toward sustainable environmental remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Zn x Cd 1-x S based materials are promising photocatalysts for photocatalysis. • Newly developed fabrication strategies of Zn x Cd 1-x S based materials are introduced. • Three main routes to enhance the photocatlytic activity of Zn x Cd 1-x S are summarized. Over the past decades, designing efficient photocatalysts represents a remarkable route to deal with energy crisis, environmental pollution issues and global warming problems. Zinc cadmium sulfide (Zn x Cd 1-x S) based photocatalysts have been explored extensively due to their continuously tunable band gap structure and outstanding absorption ability for visible light, and substantial satisfying contributions have been made. This work first summarizes recent progress on the synthesis of Zn x Cd 1-x S based materials. They also have various applications in photocatalytic area, including photocatalytic hydrogen evolution, pollutants degradation and carbon dioxide reduction. Especially, the mechanism of different pathways to improve the photocatalytic performance of Zn x Cd 1-x S based photocatalysts is discussed in detail, which has never been reported in any previous reviews up to now. Moreover, the current challenges and development ideas of Zn x Cd 1-x S based materials are proposed. It is expected that our review would be helpful for the application of Zn x Cd 1-x S based photocatalysts in future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Conduct detailed analysis and discussion on the removal mechanisms. • Solution pH and matrix components can significantly influence sulfonamides removal. • Predominant degradation pathways are hydroxylation and the cleavage of S-N bond. • Carbon-based materials may be good alternatives in the catalytic system. • Research priorities and knowledge gaps are reviewed in removing sulfonamides. The growing concerns over the environmental toxicity of sulfonamides (SNs) require immediate action to establish efficient and sustainable processes to address this issue. Adsorption, photodegradation and Fenton/Fenton-like reactions are the most applied processes to remove SNs. However, the adsorption behavior, degradation mechanisms and toxicity of intermediates need further investigation to guide engineering applications. The review focuses on the recent progress and challenges on adsorption, photodegradation and Fenton/Fenton-like techniques for SNs removal. In addition, influences of solution pH and matrix components on adsorption mechanisms are discussed. In particular, the degradation pathway of SNs and toxicity assessment of their intermediates are also analyzed. Finally, conclusions and research gaps in this field are briefly proposed. Publications on this topic have grown exponentially over the last decade. This review provides a unique and comprehensive environmental perspective, as well as the latest knowledge on SNs adsorption and reactive removal by different technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• ZIF-8/NF-TiO 2 photoanode was fabricated via electro-anodization and in-situ growth. • The photo-electrocatalytic activity was attributed to heterojunction and synergy. • Light and bias potential improved the charge generation, separation and transfer. • The synergistic factor in photo-electrocatalytic process was calculated to be 3.5. • Sulfamethazine (SMZ) degradation mechanisms and pathway were investigated. Traditional photoanodes decreased in mass transfer rate via coating powdered catalysts on conductive glass. In this work, we obtained a visible light-driven semiconductor- metal organic frameworks (MOFs) hybrid photoelectrode, which was constructed by electro-anodization and deposition growth process. The ZIF-8/NF-TiO 2 photoelectrode was based on hollow TiO 2 nanotubes, and ZIF-8 nanoparticles were deposited on the surface of the pyramid-shaped rutile TiO 2 substrate after N and F co-doping. Compared with unmodified anatase TiO 2 , the reaction rate of ZIF-8/NF-TiO 2 increased by 21.7 times, and the synergistic factor in the photo-electrocatalytic process could reach to 3.5. The porous structure of ZIF-8, the intrinsic band difference between anatase and rutile TiO 2 greatly improved light utilization, and promoted electron–hole separation. The electrode could be easily recycled and exhibit excellent repeatability, and the degradation efficiency almost unchanged after 8 cycles. Moreover, possible degradation pathways and photo-electrocatalytic degradation mechanisms of sulfamethazine were proposed. This progress could bring novel insights for the design of semiconductor-MOFs hybrid photo-electrocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Nano-carbon powder or nano-Al 2 O 3 addition showed positive effects on AD performance. • Nano-ZnO or nano-CuO addition showed negative effects on AD performance. • All conductive nanomaterials could shorten the lag phase of AD sludge. • Nano-ZnO and nano-CuO addition inhibited microbial community diversity and richness. The effects of four conductive nanomaterials (nano-carbon powder, nano-Al 2 O 3 , nano-ZnO, nano-CuO) on sludge anaerobic digestion (AD) performance and microbial community were investigated through a 36-day fermentation experiment. Results showed that biogas production enhanced by 16.9% and 23.4% with nano-carbon powder and nano-Al 2 O 3 added but decreased by 90.2% and 17.3% with nano-ZnO and nano-CuO. Total solids (TS) removal efficiency was increased by 38.73% and 27.11% with nano-carbon powder and nano-Al 2 O 3 added but decreased by 70.67% and 43.70% with nano-ZnO and nano-CuO. Kinetic analysis indicated four conductive nanomaterials could shorten the lag phase of AD sludge with an average rate of 51.75%. 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing results demonstrated microbes such as Syntrophomonas and Methanosaeta were enriched in nano-carbon powder and nano-Al 2 O 3 reactors. However, microbial community diversity and richness were both inhibited by adding nano-ZnO and nano-CuO. Redundancy analysis (RDA) revealed that genera belong to Firmicutes and Chloroflexi could conduce to methanogenesis process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Metal sulfide/MOF-based visible-light-driven hydrogen evolution was reviewed. • Special attention has been paid to the catalytic mechanism. • The synergistic effects between metal sulfide and MOF shells are discussed. • The future development prospects of this technology are proposed. Solar energy driven photocatalytic hydrogen (H 2) production from photocatalytic water splitting is considered as one of the most promising technologies to solve the energy and environmental crises. In the recent years, metal sulfide/MOF-based composites have attracted increasing attention in visible-light-driven photocatalytic H 2 production owing to their multiple advantages, such as high photochemical stability, broad light absorption and effective charge separation efficiency. Even though this field is currently in its infancy, the promising results obtained suggest that these composite photocatalysts have high potential for practical applications. In this review, we provide an overview of the progress in the design and synthesis of various metal sulfide/MOF-based nanocomposites for applications in photocatalytic H 2 production. Special consideration has been given to the synergistic effects between metal sulfide and MOF (or MOF derivative) that result in an enhanced photocatalysis. We also present some important examples showing that non-noble metal cocatalysts could serve as efficient cocatalysts for promoting photocatalytic H 2 production. Finally, the remaining issues in this field are discussed and future directions and challenges are outlined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) with high porosity have attracted much attention in environment remediation. In this study, the copper-doped ZIF-8 (Cu-ZIF-8) was synthesized by an in-situ process of a zinc metal-organic framework (ZIF-8) in room temperature. The adsorption capacity of Cu-ZIF-8 towards tetracycline hydrochloride (TC) was 2.4 times higher than the pristine ZIF-8. The effects of adsorbent dosage, initial concentrations, solution pH values, coexisting ions and reaction temperature on adsorption capacity were investigated. The adsorption process of TC over Cu-ZIF-8 fitted well with pseudo-second-order and Langmuir models, which suggested that chemisorption was dominant in adsorption reaction and the Cu-ZIF-8 adsorbent had a homogenous surface for adsorption. Adsorption thermodynamic studies implied that the adsorption process was spontaneous and exothermic. In addition, the Cu-ZIF-8 adsorbent showed excellent adsorption performance towards TC in tap water, river water and pharmaceutical wastewater. This work provided a facile and efficient strategy to fabricate MOFs-based adsorbent for water purification. The adsorption mechanism of Cu-ZIF-8 towards TC molecules. Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Pyrazine has been successfully incorporated into the carbon nitride framework. • Pyrazine molecule can acted as a channel to transfer the charge carriers. • The modified carbon nitride exhibited enhanced photocatalytic activity for hydrogen evolution and SMZ degradation. • Phytotoxicity measurements have been set up for photocatalysts and effluent after photocatalysis. Polymeric carbon nitride (PCN) has become the most promising metal-free photocatalysts but its activity is low. Molecule doping of PCN has been proved to be an effective strategy to achieve high photocatalytic performance. Herein, we report a bottom-up method to synthesize modified PCN, which includes 2,5-dibromopyrazine doping, thermal-induced exfoliation and condensation/polymerization. The incorporation of electron-deficiency 2,5-dibromopyrazine into the PCN framework can effectively tune the electronic structures and improve the charge-carrier separation. In addition, the incorporation of 2,5-dibromopyrazine induced significant structural changes from planar symmetric to distortion. The optimized pyrazine doped PCN showed a reaction rate enhancement of 4-fold for the degradation of sulfamethazine compared to that of conventional urea-based PCN. Further reactive species and degradation intermediate detection studies, indicated that O 2 − was generated during the photocatalytic process, which could lead to the decomposition, and finally mineralization of sulfamethazine. 2,5-Dibromopyrazine doped PCN also leads to a 6.3-fold improvement in H 2 generation with the visible light. Especially, phytotoxicity experiments showed that the toxicity of sulfamethazine after degradation is greatly reduced, and the as-prepared photocatalyst is environmentally friendly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• AlCo-LDH was synthesized by in-situ etching of Co-ZIF. • The formation process of AlCo-LDH was investigated. • The obtained AlCo-LDH can efficiently activate peroxymonosulfate (PMS). • Tetracycline (TC) degradation mechanisms and pathway were investigated. • The AlCo-LDH/PMS system exhibited high efficiency in actual water. In consideration of the complex synthesis of layered double hydroxides (LDHs), a simple and efficient strategy was needed to design and fabricate LDHs with high performance. In this study, aluminum-cobalt layered double hydroxide (AlCo-LDH) with uniformly distributed component was synthesized by in-situ etching of cobalt zeolitic imidazolate framework (Co-ZIF) at room temperature. The obtained AlCo-LDH showed high catalysis performance of tetracycline (TC) degradation via the activation of peroxymonosulfate (PMS). The removal efficiency can reach to 92.3% within 5 min and 49.1% of TOC removal efficiency could be obtained in 30 min. Moreover, the degradation rate constants of AlCo-LDH/PMS system (0.980 min−1) was about 16.6 times higher than Co-ZIF/PMS system (0.059 min−1). The unique hydrotalcite-like layered structure of AlCo-LDH with large surface area and volume made TC molecules diffused and interacted with the reaction sites more easily. More importantly, the higher content of Al ions in AlCo-LDH catalyst helped the low content of Co ions to activate PMS. The forming process of AlCo-LDH and the TC degradation mechanisms were investigated. The quenching experiments combined with electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) analysis showed the SO 4 − and 1O 2 radicals were the main reactive species for TC degradation. Moreover, the AlCo-LDH catalyst was stable in water for the negligible leaking of metal ions. Significantly, the AlCo-LDH/PMS system was effective and almost unaffected by pH values, organic and inorganic matters in water. In addition, high removal efficiencies were achieved in various real samples by the AlCo-LDH/PMS system. This work provided a novel and facile route to synthesis advanced MOF-derived LDHs catalyst with high performance in remediation of actual wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Novel S-CQDs/hollow tubular g-C 3 N 4 photocatalyst was successfully fabricated. • HTCN-C(2) exhibited excellent photocatalytic activity for Escherichia coli photodestruction. • The changes of Escherichia coli morphology and inside contents were verified by SEM images. • h+, O 2 − and OH radicals participate in the photocatalytic degradation process. • Cycle experiments revealed the outstanding photo-stability and reusability. Microbial contamination and antibiotic pollutions diffusely exist in wastewater system, and contaminated water poses a threat to public health. Therefore, there is a need to effectively remove biohazard and antibiotic contamination from wastewater systems. In this paper, sulfur doped carbon quantum dots (S-CQDs)/hollow tubular g-C 3 N 4 photocatalyst (HTCN-C), prepared via ultrasonic assisted synthesis strategy, was regarded as an efficient catalyst for the degradation of antibiotic (tetracycline) and destruction of a typical Gram-negative bacterium (Escherichia coli) in imitated wastewater system. The unique structures of hollow tubular g-C 3 N 4 and loading of modified carbon quantum dots enhanced electron transfer and charge separation, leading to a significant improvement in photocatalytic efficiency. Benefiting from these merits, the optimized catalysts (HTCN-C(2)) exhibited superior performance with a reaction rate of 0.0293 min−1 for tetracycline (TC) degradation and 99.99% destruction of Escherichia coli under visible-light irradiation. Moreover, the characterization of UV–Vis diffuse reflectance spectra, photoluminescence technique, transient photocurrent responses and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy also verified the good optical and electrochemical properties of resultant samples. Our current work indicates that HTCN-C has great potential in degradation of antibiotic and destruction of bacterium for practical wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]