The fabrication of CdS/CoFe2O4/rGO photocatalysts to improve the photocatalytic degradation performance under visible light

A magnetic photocatalyst, CdS/CoFe2O4/rGO, has been successfully prepared via a simple hydrothermal method. The photocatalytic activity of the as-obtained composite photocatalyst was evaluated using the degradation of tetracycline. When compared with single CdS and CoFe2O4, the hybrid material (CdS/CoFe2O4/rGO) can enhance the photocatalytic activity. The photocurrent responses and PL spectra indicate that the composite photocatalyst can effectively separate the electron–hole pairs and restrain their recombination. This was attributed to the high charge carrier mobility of rGO and the heterostructured photocatalytic system, which promotes the separation of charge carriers. In all, the CdS/CoFe2O4/rGO photocatalyst, as a strong magnetic photocatalyst, is promising for further practical application in wastewater treatment.