A facile microwave approach to synthesize RGO-BaWO<sub>4</sub> composites for high performance visible light induced photocatalytic degradation of dyes

oleh: Mohamed Jaffer Sadiq Mohamed, Denthaje Krishna Bhat

Format: Article
Diterbitkan: AIMS Press 2017-03-01

Deskripsi

Photocatalysts with enhanced efficiency for environmental remediation requires an effective separation of photogenerated electron hole pairs and optimum charge carrier transport. Based on the above criteria, a cost effective, facile one-pot microwave approach was made to synthesize RGO-BaWO<sub>4</sub> composites with excellent stability and reusability in photodegradation of methylene blue (MB) and methyl orange (MO). A series of composites with varying composition with respect to RGO was synthesized and thoroughly characterized using various techniques. The composite with 2.5% RGO-BaWO<sub>4</sub> showed maximum efficiency under visible light irradiation. The mechanism of charge transfer and kinetics of the reaction was also studied. The interfacial/interparticle charge transfer between the narrow elliptical BaWO<sub>4</sub> particles and RGO is found to be responsible for the increased efficiency. The photo generated holes and the superoxide radical were found to play a key role in the degradation process. The synergistic action makes RGO-BaWO<sub>4</sub> composites a promising material as high performance photocatalyst for degradation of organic dyes.