In situ template-free synthesis of a novel 3D p–n heteroarchitecture Ag3PO4/Ta3N5 photocatalyst with high activity and stability under visible radiation

A novel 3D p–n heteroarchitecture Ag3PO4/Ta3N5 composite photocatalyst with double visible-light-response characteristics has been prepared using an in situ template-free precipitation method. It is found that the fascinating Ag3PO4/Ta3N5 exhibited high superior photoactivity and photostability compared to bare Ag3PO4 and Ta3N5 for the degradation of RhB under visible light irradiation. The improved performance of the composite is primarily attributable to sufficient visible-light harvesting, efficient charge separation and transfer of photogenerated electrons and holes resulting from matched energy bandgaps and sufficient p–n hetero-interfaces between Ag3PO4 and Ta3N5. The quenching effects of different scavengers demonstrate that the reactive h+ and O2−˙ species played a major role in the photodegradation process. It is expected that the 3D p–n heterostructure composite fabricated via a facile precipitation method, may be a promising candidate for organic pollutant degradation.