An optimization strategy for photo-Fenton-like catalysts: Based on crystal plane engineering of BiVO4 and electron transfer properties of 0D CQDs

Herein, we report a novel Cu₂(OH)₃ F/CQDs-BiVO₄ composite photo-Fenton-like system, which used BiVO₄ and Cu₂(OH)₃F as electron donor and acceptor, respectively, and achieved efficient electron transfer between them through the electron bridging effect of Carbon quantum dots (CQDs). The material exhibited excellent ciprofloxacin (CIP) removal efficiency in the photo-Fenton-like coupled system. Cu₂(OH)₃ F/CQDs-BiVO₄ had an incredibly fast response rate, eliminating 98.1% of CIP from the solution in just 1 h, according to the reaction kinetics. Exploratory tests proved that the catalyst kept up a sufficient level of activity across a wide pH range of 3-11 and in the presence of various anions. The activity, morphology, and crystal structure of the samples did not appreciably alter after five recycles. Finally, a possible reaction mechanism was also proposed based on the band structure, position and reaction species.

Efficient electron transfer and copper species transformation under the synergy of BiVO4 and novel Cu2(OH)3F nanosheets

Here, we report a simple and efficient strategy for evenly in situ growth of Cu₂(OH)₃F nanosheets on BiVO₄ spheres as a novel photo-Fenton-like catalyst using hydrothermal method. The Cu₂(OH)₃F/BiVO₄ composite catalysts showed great performance for the organic pollutants degradation under visible light irradiation due to the efficient electron transfer and copper species transformation. The synergetic between Cu₂(OH)₃F and BiVO₄ not only promoted the separation of electrons and holes but also enhanced the Cu²⁺ reduction, thus produced more strong oxidative radicals under a wide pH value range. The activity of Cu₂(OH)₃F/BiVO₄ composite for methylene blue degradation was 6.03 and 5.47 times more than that of pristine Cu₂(OH)₃F and BiVO₄, respectively. The composite catalysts were characterized with various methods and their stability and adaptability were also evaluated. Finally, a possible photo-Fenton-like reaction mechanism was also proposed based on the band structure/position and reaction species.