Facile preparation of a novel Bi24O31Br10/nano-ZnO composite photocatalyst with enhanced visible light photocatalytic ability

In this wok, a novel Bi24O31Br10/nano-ZnO composite photocatalyst has been synthesized with solvothermal method. The photocatalytic ability of the composite photocatalyst is estimated through degrading Rhodomine B (RhB) under visible light. The RhB degradation rate exceeds 90% in 40 min for the Bi24O31Br10/nano-ZnO (5%) composite, showing the most remarkable photocatalytic abilities. The excellent photocatalytic performance can be explained by the successful detachment and motion of photo-induced electrons (e(-)) and holes (h(+)) in the composite photocatalyst. Additionally, a probable photo-catalytic principle of the Bi24O31Br10/nano-ZnO composite for RhB degradation is discussed. This study could provide an original visible light driven photocatalyst on efficiently purifying dye wastewaters.