Selectively depositing Bi2O3 quantum dots on TiO2 nanotubes for efficient visible-light-driven photocatalysis

By utilizing the strong interaction between Bi3+ and TiO2, we successfully decorate TiO2 nanotubes with Bi2O3 quantum dots (QDs) by three different strategies. The similar size distribution but distinct photosensitization performance of these Bi2O3 QDs lead us to investigate decisive factors other than particle size. It is suggested that the photochemical method can selectively deposit Bi2O3 QDs on electron-rich sites of TiO2, which provides a facile channel for the electron-hole separation and transfer. As a result, abundant h+ and ·OH are generated to effectively degrade RhB.