Bi2S3 nanorods embedded with MoS2 nanosheets composite for photodegradation of phenol red under visible light irradiation

Abstract

A composite of Bi2S3 nanorods supported by MoS2 nanosheets was synthesized based on self-assembly using a simple hydrothermal method without surfactants for the first time. The structural features, composition, and morphology were characterized by XRD, SEM-EDX, TEM, HRTEM, XPS, UV-vis spectroscopy, N-2 adsorption-desorption, and TG-DTA measurements. The results show that the composite consists of Bi2S3 nanorods that retain the rod-like structure of the pure Bi2S3 and are attached randomly to the MoS2 nanosheets. Their diameter is in the range of 20-50 nm with length ranging from a few tens of nanometers to micrometers and a high degree of size homogeneity. Under xenon lamp irradiation, 80 wt% Bi2S3-20 wt% MoS2 (i.e. BM-20) photocatalyst demonstrated the highest percentage of dye degradation (83.4% after 60 min) and the photocatalytic performance continues a high level after 5 cycles. The obtained Bi2S3-MoS2 composite structure is beneficial for enhanced photocatalytic performance and enhanced photo degradation efficiency two times than that of pure Bi2S3. The photocatalyst test results indicate that the active radicals center dot O-2(-), h(+), and center dot OH- are favorable for the photocatalytic reaction. A possible reaction mechanism is proposed for the composite.