scatalysis: Exploring the mechanism of photocatalytic algal removal

Photocatalytic algal removal is an environmentally friendly and low-cost algal bloom control technology. In this work, carbon nitride nanosheets based on morphology control were synthesized, and a ternary Z-scheme photocatalyst was designed through heterojunction engineering for photocatalytic removal of harmful algae and their organic matter, and the removal rate of chlorophyll a was close to 100 % in 300 min. Three-dimensional fluorescence spectrograms and cellular SEM maps revealed the removal of algae and their organic matter, and the mechanism of Ag/AgCl/ZIF-8/SCN photocatalytic algal removal was explored in conjunction with the changes in membrane permeability and various physiological functions. Mechanistic studies showed that excess O₂·⁻ played a crucial role in cell inactivation and organic matter degradation. Oxidative stress caused by O₂·⁻ promoted the accumulation of H₂O₂ in cells and accelerates cell death. This study provides new ideas and support for the application of harmful algal bloom control and the mechanism of algal cell inactivation in real water bodies.