Synthesis and characterization of a POM-based nanocomposite as a novel magnetic photocatalyst

A novel magnetic photocatalyst, prepared by grafting polyoxometalates (POM) anions PW12O403− onto Fe3O4 nanoparticles via a layer of Ag, was synthesized and characterized. The coated Ag layer was used as an intermediate bond for anchoring POM anions onto the magnetite cores. Resulting materials have been characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), nitrogen adsorption–desorption isotherm, magnetization, and inductively coupled plasma (ICP). The activity of the photocatalyst was tested by the photocatalytic degradation of Rhodamine B. It was found that, compared to pure POM, the decolorization fraction of Rhodamine B in 2 h operation was 2.8–3.4 times higher by using the POM-based nanocomposite. ICP analysis of the concentration of Fe, W and P in treated water showed that photodissolution was minimal. In addition, as the synthesized composite possesses a magnetite core, it is possible to retrieve the photocatalyst by exerting an external magnetic field, which is easier than the recovery of conventional TiO2 fine particles and homogeneous POM photocatalysts. The exhibited photocatalytic activity and magnetization of the novel photocatalyst provide a promising solution for the degradation of water contaminants and photocatalyst recovery.