Modifications of morphology and hydrogen evolution activity for the potassium niobate nanoscrolls by introducing reduced graphene oxide

• RGO intercalated potassium niobate nanoscrolls were prepared by a facile approach.
• The nanoscrolls were with high and stable photocatalytic activity for H2 evolution.
• The quick separation of carriers were vital to the improved activity.

A new type of potassium niobate/reduced graphene oxide (RGO) composite nanoscrolls was prepared by the intercalation of RGO in the process of curling of the potassium niobate nanosheets. The as-prepared potassium niobate/RGO composite nanoscrolls were characterized with powder X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, solid diffuse reflectance UV–visible spectroscopy and fluorescence spectroscopy. The photocatalytic activity of the composite nanoscrolls was evaluated by hydrogen evolution from aqueous methanol under UV irradiation. It was found that the photocatalytic activity was enhanced as 3.1 times after introducing 2% RGO, compared with the pure potassium niobate nanoscrolls. It was ascribed to the enhanced separation efficiency of electron/hole pairs as testified by electrochemical impedance spectrum and fluorescence spectrum. Moreover, the composite photocatalyst was stable and easy to be recycled.

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