# Metal-Free and Degradable Photocatalyst for Water Decontamination: An Innovative Application for High-Sulfur Content Polymers

## TL;DR

This paper introduces a metal-free, degradable polymer for water purification that effectively removes contaminants and is environmentally friendly.

## Contribution

High-sulfur polymers are proposed as a novel, metal-free photocatalyst with degradability and high contaminant removal efficiency.

## Key findings

- High-sulfur polymers achieved over 80% removal of dyes and emerging contaminants in water.
- Siloxane groups reduced photocatalytic activity by 81.3% due to hindered hydroxyl radical generation.
- DIB-based polymers degraded under UV, reducing environmental persistence and secondary pollution risks.

## Abstract

This study explores
high-sulfur content polymers as metal-free
photocatalysts for water purification. Photocatalytic activity was
strongly influenced by the chemical structure of the cross-linker;
polymers with fewer unsaturations showed higher performance, while
siloxane groups reduced activity by 81.3% by hindering hydroxyl radical
generation. Increased sulfur content further improves photocatalytic
activity, underscoring sulfur’s role in contaminant degradation.
The polymers achieved >80% removal of dyes and emerging contaminants,
maintaining effectiveness in tap water, which demonstrates practical
applicability. Reusability varied with cross-linker type, with 1,3-diisopropenylbenene
(DIB)-based polymers showing lower durability than the 2,4,6,8-tetramethyl-2,4,6,8-tetravinylcyclotetrasiloxane-based
polymers. Importantly, DIB polymers underwent UV-induced oxidation
and mineralization, reducing environmental persistence and minimizing
secondary pollution risks. Overall, these high-sulfur polymers represent
a promising, environmentally friendly alternative to conventional
metal-based photocatalysts for sustainable water purification and
treatment.