Zn0.5Cd0.5S nanoparticle modified 2D BiOCl as solid-state Z-scheme photocatalyst for enhanced rhodamine B removal

In this work, novel Z-scheme Zn0.5Cd0.5S/BiOCl (ZCS-BC) heterostructures are established with a facile hydrothermal method. Zn0.5Cd0.5S (ZCS) nanoparticles are loaded on the surface of BiOCl sheets uniformly and have a close contact with BiOCl. Compared with pure ZCS and BiOCl, ZCS-BC heterojunctions show more efficient photocatalytic behavior for rhodamine B (RhB) decomposition under simulative sunlight. The obtained 15%ZCS-BC heterojunction has optimal photocatalytic activity, and the RhB removal efficiency exceeds 98% when exposed to light source for 40 min. The successful construction of Z-scheme heterostructure between ZCS and BiOCl enhances the migration abilities of photogenerated carriers, leading to the reinforcement of photocatalytic property of ZCS-BC. Additionally, the 15%ZCS-BC heterojunction also exhibits desired photodegradation stability after four cycles. In the photocatalytic reaction system, photo-induced holes (h+) and superoxide radical (·O2-) play a critical role, followed by hydroxyl radical (·OH). A probable photocatalytic mechanism of ZCS-BC composite towards RhB decomposition is discussed.