Optimized photocatalytic regeneration of adsorption-photocatalysis bifunctional composite saturated with Methyl Orange

Photo-responsive adsorption-photocatalysis nanocomposites are generally used in water and wastewater decontamination; however, the prolonged adsorption capacity of composites and the role of adsorption in concomitant photocatalysis are typically neglected. These composites can be regenerated under light irradiation as their adsorption capacity decreases. Herein, a novel adsorption-photocatalysis bifunctional nanocomposite, Bi-doped TiO2 supported on powdered activated carbon (Bi2O3/TiO2/PAC), was prepared using the sol-impregnation-hydrothermal procedure. Bi2O3/TiO2/PAC with a secondary calcination temperature of 700°C under a nitrogen atmosphere was selected for maximum adsorption capacity on Methyl Orange (MO). The composite displayed an excellent adsorption capacity and was easily separated and recycled. The results demonstrate that 71.2% photocatalytic regeneration efficiency could be attained under visible light irradiation for 1 hr at an intensity of 750 W/m2 and pH 7. Characterization of the as-prepared Bi2O3/TiO2/PAC nanocomposite (700°C) indicates that it possesses a highly specific surface area and great optical properties, showing bifunctional adsorption-photocatalysis characteristics. The p-n heterojunction of the composite played a dominant role in the photocatalytic regeneration process, and effective degradation of MO could be achieved along with composite regeneration.