Photocatalytic degradation of RhB over MgFe2O4/TiO2 composite materials

MgFe2O4/TiO2 (MFO/TiO2) composite photocatalysts were successfully synthesized using a mixing-annealing method. The synthesized composites exhibited significantly higher photocatalytic activity than a naked semiconductor in the photodegradation of Rhodamine B. Under UV and visible light irradiation, the optimal percentages of doped MgFe2O4 (MFO) were 2 wt.% and 3 wt.%, respectively. The effects of calcination temperature on photocatalytic activity were also investigated. The origin of the high level of activity was discussed based on the results of X-ray diffraction, UV–vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and nitrogen physical adsorption. The enhanced activity of the catalysts was mainly attributed to the synergetic effect between the two semiconductors, the band potential of which matched suitably.

► Novel composite MgFe2O4/TiO2 as catalyst.
► Higher activity for the photodegradation of RhB under visible light irradiation.
► Calcination temperature of catalyst has effect on photocatalytic activity.
► Different photocatalysis mechanism under UV and visible light irradiation.