Nanoarchitectonics of S-scheme 0D/2D SbVO4/g-C3N4 photocatalyst for enhanced pollution degradation and H2 generation

In this work, we successfully explored the possibility of using SbVO4 nanoparticles to construct photocatalyst. In detail, 0D/2D SbVO4/g-C3N4 was constructed by a simple physical mixing strategy. The SbVO4/g-C3N4 composite exhibits the admire photocatalytic performance including H2 generation from water, and the photocatalytic degradation activity of RhB, MB and ceftriaxone sodium. Based on ESR radical detection and photoelectrochemical tests, the result can be well concluded that an efficient S-scheme heterojunction is formed between SbVO4 and g-C3N4. The charge separation of the SbVO4/g-C3N4 composite has been dramatically improved in comparison to their monomers due to the built-in electric field, band bending and electrostatic attraction, and the charge carriers with high redox activity, resulting in enhanced activity. [Display omitted] •SbVO4 nanoparticles are rarely used in photocatalytic degradation of pollutants and H2 evolution.•S-scheme charge transfer route was formed between SbVO4 and g-C3N4 heterojunction.•SbVO4/g-C3N4 exhibits superior degradation activity toward various pollutants.•SbVO4/g-C3N4 composite possesses intimate 0D/2D contact interface and higher surface area.