Novel AgI/BiSbO4 heterojunction for efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants under visible light: Interfacial electron transfer pathway, DFT calculation and degradation mechanism study

Herein, we constructed a novel AgI/BiSbO4 heterojunction via a hydrothermal-precipitation method. The heterojunction structure boosts the generation of hydroxyl and superoxide radicals for efficient degradation of organic pollutants. The photocatalytic activities of the optimal sample for ARG and TC degradation are 10 and 1.6 times higher than those of bare AgI, respectively. Characterizations and theoretical calculations together confirm a strong interfacial charge transfer exists between the interlayer in AgI and BiSbO4 by the formation of Ag-O bond, making O atoms obtain rich free electrons from Ag atoms of AgI, thus forming an ultrahigh electron transfer tunnel, and ultimately accelerating the separation of photoinduced electrons. More interestingly, low amounts of Ag-0 NPs formed during the photocatalytic process, enhancing the visible light absorption because of its SPR (surface plasmon resonance) effect and further promoting the separation of photoinduced carriers. Furthermore, photocatalytic degradation pathways were proposed in detail by analyzing intermediates and a reasonable photocatalytic mechanism was unearthed. This work extends the development of AgI-based heterojunction photocatalysts.

Automated summary

A novel AgI/BiSbO4 heterojunction photocatalyst was constructed, enhancing the generation of hydroxyl and superoxide radicals for efficient degradation of organic pollutants. Characterizations and theoretical calculations confirmed strong interfacial charge transfer and the formation of Ag-0 NPs during the photocatalytic process, further promoting the separation of photoinduced carriers. Proposed photocatalytic degradation pathways and mechanisms provide insights for the development of AgI-based heterojunction photocatalysts.