Construction of quantum dots self-decorated BiVO4/reduced graphene hydrogel composite photocatalyst with improved photocatalytic performance for antibiotics degradation

In this study, we report the construction of a novel composite photocatalyst (BiVO4/rGH) composed of quantum dots (QDs) self-decorated BiVO4-nanoparticels (NPs) and reduced graphene hydrogel (rGH). The composite structures were prepared using an in-situ growth method. The BiVO4/rGH composite photocatalysts exhibited excellent photocatalytic efficiency for the degradation of tetracycline hydrochloride (TCHCl). The promoted photocatalytic activity of the BiVO4/rGH is attributed to the synergetic effects of the unique structure involving QDs self-decorated BiVO4 NPs and a 3D network structure of rGH, which resulted in higher number of photogenerated charge carriers, surplus active sites, and enhanced charge separation. In addition, trapping measurements showed that ·O2− and h+, as the main active species, play a crucial role in the degradation of TCHCl over the composite photocatalyst. This study facilitates the design and construction of high efficiency hybrid photocatalysts with multifunctional materials for the removal of water pollutants. [Display omitted] •A novel QDs-BiVO4/rGH photocatalyst was constructed by coupling QDs self-decorated BiVO4 with rGH.•QDs-BiVO4/rGH display enhanced photocatalytic activity for TCHCl degradation.•The synergetic effects of QDs-BiVO4 and rGH can enhanced the separation of carriers.•A possible photocatalytic reaction mechanism of TCHCl degradation was presented.