Enhanced photocatalytic performance of Ag-decorated BiFeO in visible light region.

In this paper, a novel photocatalyst, made up of Ag/BiFeO nanocomposites activated by visible light, was successfully synthesized using a sol-gel process, followed by a chemical reduction method. The as-prepared BiFeO particles and Ag/BiFeO nanocomposites were characterized by X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. The results showed that the metal Ag nanoparticles with diameter of 20-50 nm are anchored on the surface of BiFeO. Meanwhile, the photocatalytic experiments demonstrated that the Ag/BiFeO composites had excellent photocatalytic activity for the decomposition of methyl orange in visible light, which far exceeded that of the pure BiFeO. These results revealed Ag loading could significantly improve the photocatalytic property of BiFeO. Recycle experiments showed the nanocomposites had an excellent recoverability, suggesting stable photoactivity. Finally, we discuss the photocatalytic mechanism of nanocomposites. The enhanced photoactivity of Ag-decorated BiFeO photocatalyst is most likely attributed to the electronic effect of Ag nanoparticles including surface plasmon resonance. Graphical Abstract: [Figure not available: see fulltext.] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]