Role of graphene on the structure and optical properties of rGO/BiPbO2Cl nanosheet composites with enhanced photocatalytic activity

• Published in: Journal of alloys and compounds Vol. 696; pp. 246 - 250
• Main Authors: Zhong, WenWu, Xu, AiJiao, Guo, RenQing, Wang, WenJun
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier B.V 05.03.2017
• Subjects: BiPbO2Cl; Graphene; Photocatalyst; Visible light; Visible light; BiPbO2Cl; Graphene; Photocatalyst
• ISSN: 0925-8388; 1873-4669
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jallcom.2016.11.275

The composite photocatalysts composed of BiPbO2Cl and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) were synthesized by a one-step hydrothermal method. The UV–vis absorbance spectra results show that the BiPbO2Cl nanosheet absorbs more visible light when it is combined with graphene. The Raman spectra results indicate that the D and G bands are not visible from the Raman spectra of BiPbO2Cl, and the peak strength of two bands is increased with the increase of graphene content. The obtained 2 wt% rGO/BiPbO2Cl nanosheet composites exhibit higher photocatalytic activity, which is 5.7 times compared with that of BiPbO2Cl nanosheets. The improved photocatalytic activity of the rGO/BiPbO2Cl composites is ascribed to effective charge transfer due to graphene. [Display omitted] •The BiPbO2Cl has slightly higher absorption intensities by recombination with graphene.•The PL intensity of pure BiPbO2Cl is decreased by the loading with rGO.•The photocatalytic activity of the obtained 2 wt% rGO/BiPbO2Cl nanosheet composites is improved as large as 5.7 times.•More efficient photoinduced charge separation and transfer in rGO/BiPbO2Cl composite.