CoFe2O4/BiFeO3 Z-scheme heterojunction under rotating magnetic field: Enhanced photocatalytic degradation of berberine hydrochloride

The cooperation of heterojunction and magnetic field can effectively improve the efficiency of photocatalytic degradation of pollutants. Herein, CoFe2O4/BiFeO3 Z-scheme heterojunctions (CFO/BFO) were applied in the magnetic field-assisted photocatalytic reaction generated by a rotating permanent magnet for the degradation of berberine hydrochloride, which achieved a degradation rate of 96.49% and showed good stability and recoverability. The active substances controlling the reaction were holes and superoxide radicals. The excellent magneto-photocatalytic performances of CoFe2O4/BiFeO3 can be attributed to the construction of the Z-scheme heterojunction, the magnetoelectric effect produced by the synergistic combination in the magnetic field, and the driving force of the Lorentz force for photocatalysis. [Display omitted] •Hydrothermal synthesis of CoFe2O4/BiFeO3 Z-scheme heterojunction.•Excellent photocatalytic effect in magnetic field-assisted photocatalysis.•Performance enhancement mechanism of magneto-photocatalysis is proposed.•Good stability and reusability of catalytic degradation reactions.