Graphdiyne-hybridized N-doped TiO2 nanosheets for enhanced visible light photocatalytic activity

In this study, graphdiyne (GD)-hybridized nitrogen-doped TiO2 nanosheets with exposed (001) facets (GD-NTNS) have been prepared via a hydrothermal reaction and utilized as photocatalyst for the photodegradation of rhodamine B (RhB) under visible light illumination. The resultant GD-NTNS composites exhibit superior visible light photocatalytic activity than that of the bare TiO2 nanosheets (TNS) and nitrogen-doped TiO2 nanosheets (NTNS). The enhanced photoactivity can be attributed to the synergistic effects of GD and nitrogen doping with efficient electron transfer and strong visible light absorption. It has been revealed that O-center dot(2-) and h(+) are the major species for the enhanced photoactivity under visible light. Our work will facilitate the potential for future design of hybrid materials for practical applications beyond photocatalysts.