Carbon quantum dots modified CdSe loaded reduced graphene oxide for enhancing photocatalytic activity

Carbon quantum dots (CQDs)/CdSe/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) was fabricated by hydrothermal method. The structures, optical and electronic properties of as-obtained photocatalysts were analyzed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and photoelectrochemical testing. The photocatalytic performances were investigated by degradation of tetracycline hydrochloride (TC·HCl). The results showed CQDs modified CdSe loaded rGO could effectively remove TC·HCl, the CdSe modified with 7 mL CQDs showed higher photocatalytic degradation rate; the 5 wt% loaded rGO for CQDs/CdSe showed highest photocatalytic activity. The photocatalytic mechanism exhibited OH, O2− and 1O2 radicals play key roles.