Ag@AgBr/graphene oxide/Ni composite film: A highly efficient and stable visible-light-induced plasma photocatalyst and catalytic mechanism

Photocatalytic films are among the best candidates for practical applications because of their features of facile fixing and recycling. Ag@AgBr/Graphene Oxide (GO)/Ni surface plasma composite thin film catalyst was successfully prepared by a simple composite electrodeposition method. The photocatalytic (PC) activity and kinetic properties of the composite films for degradation of Rhodamine B, methyl orange, and Congo red were investigated under visible light. The photocatalysis mechanism was explored using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and addition of active species trapping agents into the reaction system. The results show that the Ag@AgBr/GO/Ni composite film prepared by the optimal process is composed of a small amount of GO and AgBr crystal with Ag nanoparticles on the surface. The composite film demonstrates outstanding surface plasmon resonance, excellent PC activity, and good catalytic stability. The degradation efficiency for Rhodamine B using Ag@AgBr/GO/Ni composite film is 1.35 times greater than that using Ag@AgBr/Ni film. The main reason for the improvement in the PC performance of the composite films is that the charge conductivity and PC reduction of dissolved oxygen of the films are greatly improved by the presence of GO.

Automated summary

Photocatalytic films, prepared by composite electrodeposition method, demonstrate outstanding surface plasmon resonance and catalytic stability. The degradation efficiency for Rhodamine B using the Ag@AgBr/GO/Ni composite film is significantly higher compared to using the Ag@AgBr/Ni film. The presence of GO greatly improves the charge conductivity and PC reduction of the films, leading to enhanced photocatalytic performance.