Nanoscale ZnS-photosensitized TiO2 particles supported on acid functionalized multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were prepared via a mild hydrothermal route. The new optical properties and porous structure of the as-prepared samples were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), BET surface area analysis, UV-vis DRS and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The photocatalytic activities of the composite catalysts were evaluated by the decomposition of an MB solution under visible light irradiation. The results indicate that the addition of an appropriate amount of MWCNTs as supports for TiO2 and ZnS efficiently inhibit the agglomeration of ZnS/TiO2 thus improving the dispersion of nanoparticles and the activity of visible photodegradation was remarkably improved.

Keywords: ZnS, MWCNTs, TiO2, Visible-light photocatalysis, Methylene blue.