Environment-friendly g-C3N4/SnO2/BiPO4 for enhanced Rhodamine B photocatalysis under visible-light

Objective A highly active and stable composite photocatalyst which can be used in practical environmental remediation was developed. Methods g-C 3 N 4 /SnO 2 /BiPO 4 ternary composites (CN/SO/BPO) were synthesised via simple impregnation, and their texture structure, morphology, and surface composition were deeply characterized. Results In just 25 min under visible-light radiation, CN/SO/BPO almost eliminated rhodamine B, and the observed rate constant for the reaction was almost 36 and 3 times higher in comparison to that of CN/BPO and SO/BPO, respectively. Conclusions On the basis of experimental outcomes and DFT calculation, the direct Z-type structure of CN/SO/BPO lead to the improved photogenerated charge separation efficiency, as confirmed by surface photovoltage spectroscopy, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and transient photocurrent responses.