Efficient electron transfer and copper species transformation under the synergy of BiVO4 and novel Cu2(OH)3F nanosheets

Here, we report a simple and efficient strategy for evenly in situ growth of Cu 2 (OH) 3 F nanosheets on BiVO 4 spheres as a novel photo-Fenton-like catalyst using hydrothermal method. The Cu 2 (OH) 3 F/BiVO 4 composite catalysts showed great performance for the organic pollutants degradation under visible light irradiation due to the efficient electron transfer and copper species transformation. The synergetic between Cu 2 (OH) 3 F and BiVO 4 not only promoted the separation of electrons and holes but also enhanced the Cu 2+ reduction, thus produced more strong oxidative radicals under a wide pH value range. The activity of Cu 2 (OH) 3 F/BiVO 4 composite for methylene blue degradation was 6.03 and 5.47 times more than that of pristine Cu 2 (OH) 3 F and BiVO 4 , respectively. The composite catalysts were characterized with various methods and their stability and adaptability were also evaluated. Finally, a possible photo-Fenton-like reaction mechanism was also proposed based on the band structure/position and reaction species.