Novel Bi2WO6 modified by N-doped graphitic carbon nitride photocatalyst for efficient photocatalytic degradation of phenol under visible light

In this study, a series of NCN/BiWO (NCN = N-doped graphitic carbon nitride, BiWO = Bi2WO6) were fabricated successfully, which were characterized by XRD, TEM, FTIR, BET, UV–vis spectrometry, XPS and PL. Under visible light irradiation, the optimum mass ratio of 60 % NCN/BiWO could reach 93.1 % removal efficiency of phenol within 5 h, which was about 6.9 times as that pure Bi2WO6. And the degradation rate constant of 60 % NCN/BiWO (2.6726 min-1) was about 18.5 times as that of pure Bi2WO6 (0.1442 min-1). According to the result of UV–vis absorption spectra, VB-XPS spectra and photoelectrochemistry performance, the photocatalytic mechanism of 60 % NCN/BiWO was revealed, indicating that the narrow band gap of 60 % NCN/BiWO is the main factor on the high photocatalytic activity. The stable and recyclable properties also were done, showing highly suitable for practical application.