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 (TC[rad]HCl). 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 TC[rad]HCl 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.