Carbon quantum dot (CQD)-modified Bi3O4Br nanosheets possessing excellent photocatalytic activity under simulated sunlight. (February 2021) - Huang, Xiameng
Abstract: Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) modified Bi3 O4 Br (CQDs/Bi3 O4 Br) nanosheets were successfully synthesized through a mild hydrothermal method for the first time. Compared with traditional photocatalysts Degussa P25 and g-C3 N4, the CQDs/Bi3 O4 Br composites exhibited better photocatalytic activity in degrading rhodamine B (RhB) under simulated sunlight, and the degradation rate of the composites could be increased by up to 4 times compared with the pure Bi3 O4 Br. In addition, the CQDs/Bi3 O4 Br composites also presented higher photocatalytic properties in degrading tetracycline hydrochloride (TC) and bisphenol A (BPA). The activity enhancement was attributed to the heterojunction structure formed by Bi3 O4 Br and CQDs, which could effectively separate photogenerated carriers. Two major active species, holes (h + ) and superoxide radicals (O2 − ), were found in the process of photocatalysis. This work may provide a novel method for the environmentally friendly preparation of photocatalysts to remedy freshwater pollution. Highlights: CQDs/Bi3 O4 Br composites with excellent photocatalytic activity under sunlight were prepared. CQDs promote the separation of photogenerated electrons and holes in Bi3 O4 Br. The CQDs/Bi3 O4 Br composite did not show significant structural changes after the recycling tests.