In Situ Growth of CuBi<sub>2</sub>O<sub>4</sub>/Bi<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3</sub> Z-Scheme Heterostructures for Bifunctional Photocatalytic Applications
Sneha Mondal, Lokanath Patra, P. Ilanchezhiyan, Bernaurdshaw Neppolian, Ravindra Pandey, V. Ganesh
Abstract
In this study, we present an in situ solvothermal approach for synthesizing a highly efficient bifunctional CuBi 2 O 4 /Bi 2 O 3 composite catalyst for applications in H 2 production and the removal of organic pollutants. Various characterization techniques, including XRD, UV–vis DRS, SEM, TEM, and EIS, were used to characterize the prepared catalyst. Density functional theory calculations confirmed a Z-scheme mechanism, revealing the charge transfer mechanism from the Bi 2 O 3 surface to the CuBi 2 O 4 surface. The composite exhibited a photocurrent of 2.83 × 10 4 A/cm 2 and a hydrogen production rate of 526 μmolg –1 h –1 under natural sunlight. Moreover, the catalyst demonstrated efficient degradation of RhB up to 58% in 120 min under 50 W LED illumination. Additionally, multiple recycling tests confirmed its high stability and recyclability, making it a promising candidate for various applications in the field of photocatalysis.